Parzival, a knightly epic

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I

PARZIVAL

VOL, I
BOOKS I.-IX

PARZIVAL

A KNISHTLY EPIC

I •

BY

WOLFRAM VON ESCHEN BACH

TRANSLATED BY

JESSIE L WESTON
VOL I

ANASTATIC REPRINT OF THE EDITION LONDON 18M.

NEW YORK

O. E. STECHERT & CO.,

1912.

1

n

E5'2

v./

TO THE MEMORY OF

RICHARD WAGNER

WHOSE GENIUS HAS GIVEN FRESH LIFE

TO THE CREATIONS OF MEDIiEVAL ROMANCE

THIS TRANSLATION IS

DEDICATED

CONTENTS

BOOK

INTRODUCTION

I. GAMÜRET
II. HERZELEIDE
IIL GURNEMANZ
IV. KONDWIRAMUR
V. ANFORTAS
VI. ARTHUR
VII. OBILOT
VIII. ANTIKONIE .
IX. TREVREZENT
APPENDICES
NOTES

PACK

ix

33
63

lOI

127

157
193
227
249
289

299

INTRODUCTION

N presenting, for the first time, to English readers the
greatest work of Germany's greatest mediaeval poet, a
few words of introduction, alike for poem and writer,
may not be out of place. The' lapse of nearly seven
hundred years, and the changes which the centuries
have worked, alike in language and in thought, would have naturally
operated to render any work unfamiliar, still more so when that work
was composed in a foreign tongue ; but, indeed, it is only within the
present century that the original text of the Parzival has been collated
from the MSS. and made accessible, even in its own land, to the
general reader. But the interest which is now felt by many in the
Arthurian romances, quickened into life doubtless by the genius of
the late Poet Laureate, and the fact that the greatest composer of
our time, Richard Wagner, has selected this poem as the groundwork
of that wonderful drama, which a growing consensus of opinion has
hailed as the grandest artistic achievement of this century, seem to
indicate that the time has come when the work of Wolfram von
Eschenbach may hope to receive, from a wider public than that of
his own day, the recognition which it so well deserves.

Of the poet himself we know but little, save from the personal
allusions scattered throughout his works; the dates of his birth and
death are alike unrecorded, but the frequent notices of contemporary
events to be found in his poems enable us to fix with tolerable cer-
tainty the period of his literary activity, and to judge approximately the
outline of his life. Wolfram's greatest work, the Parzival^ was appar-
ently written within the early years of the thirteenth century; he

X PARZIVAL

makes constant allusions to events happening, and to works produced,
within the first decade of that period; and as his latest work, the
WillthahHy left unfinished, mentions as recent the death of the Land-
grave Herman of Thuringia, which occurred in 1216, the probability
seems to be that the Parzival was written within the first fifteen years
of the thirteenth century. Inasmuch, too, as this work bears no traces
of immaturity in thought or style, it is probable that the date of the
poet's birth cannot be placed much later than 11 70.

The name. Wolfram von Eschenbach, points to Eschenbach in
Bavaria as in all probability the place of his birth, as it certainly was
of his burial. So late as the end of the seventeenth century his
tomb, with inscription, was to be seen in the Frauen-kirche of Ober-
Eschenbach, and the fact that within a short distance of the town are
to be found localities mentioned in his poems, such as Wildberg,
Abenberg, Trühendingeq, Wertheim, etc., seems to show that there,
too, the life of the poet-knight was spent.

By birth, as Wolfram himself tells us, he belonged to the knighüy
order (Zum Schildesamt bin Ich geboren), though whether his famtiy
was noble or not is a disputed point, in any case Wolfram was a poor
man, as the humorous allusions which he makes to his poverty abun-
dantly testify. Yet he does not seem to have led the life of a wander-
ing singer, as did his famous contemporary, Walther von der Vogelweide;
if Wolfram journeyed, as he probably did, it was rather in search of
knightly adventures, he tells us : ^ Durchstreifen muss Der Lande viel,
Wer Schildesamt verwalten will,' and though fully conscious of his
gift of song, yet he systematically exalts his office of knight above that
oi poet The period when Wolfram lived and sang, we cannot say
wrotey for by his own confession he could neither read nor write (' I'ne
kan decheinen buochstap,' he says in Parzivai; and in Wilkhalm^
'Waz an den buochen steht geschrieben, Des bin Ich kunstelos
geblieben' ), and his poems must, therefore, have been orally dictated,
was one peculiarly fitted to develop his special genius. Under the
rule of the Hohenstaufen the institution of knighthood had reached
its highest point of glory, and had not yet lapsed into the extravagant

INTRODUCTION xi

absurdities and unrealities which characterised its period of decadence;
and the Arthurian romances which first found shape in Northern
Fiance had just passed into Germany, there to be gladly welcomed,
and to receive at the hands of German poets the impress of an
ethical and philosophical interpretation foreign to their original form.

It was in these romances that Wolfram, in common with other of
his contemporaries, found his chief inspiration ; in the Parzival^ his
master-work, he has told again the story of the Quest for, and winning
of, the Grail; told it in connection with the Perceval legend, through
the medium of which, it must be remembered, the spiritualising influ-
ence of the Grail myth first came into contact with the brilliant
chivalry and low morality of the original Arthurian romances ; and told
it in a manner that is as truly mediaeval in form as it is modem in
interpretation. The whole poem is instinct- with the true knightly
spirit; it has been well called Das Hohelied van Ititterium, the
knightly song of songs, for Wolfram has seized not merely the ex-
ternal but the very soul of knighthood, even as described in our own
day by another German poet ; Wolfram's ideal knight, in his fidelity
to his plighted word, his noble charity towards his fellow-man, lord
of the Grail, with Its civilising, humanising influence, is a veritable
'true knight of the Holy Ghost' In a short introduction such as
this it is impossible to discuss with any fulness the fascinating pro-
blems connected with this poem, one can do no more than indicate
where the principal difficulties lie. These may be briefly said to be
chiefly connected with the source from which Wolfram derived his
poem, and with the interpretation of its ethical meaning. That
Wolfram drew from a French source we know from his own state-
ment, he quotes as his authority a certain * Kiot the Proven9al,' who,
in his turn, found his information in an Arabian ms. at Toledo. Unfor-
tunately no such poet, and no such poem, are known to us, while we
do possess a French version of the story, Li Conte del Graal^ by
Chretien de Troyes, which, so far as the greater part of the poem
(/.^. Books III, to XIII.) is concerned, shows a remarkable agreement
not only in sequence of incidents, but even in verbal correspondence,

xii PARZIVAL

with Wolfram's work. Chretien, however, does not give either the
first two or the last three books as we find them in Wolfram. The
account of Percevars father, and of his death, is by another hand than
Chretien's, and does not agree with Wolfram's account; and the
poem, left unfinished by Chretien, has been continued and concluded
at great length by at least three other writers, who have evidently
drawn from differing sources; whereas Wolfram's conclusion agrees
closely with his introduction, and his whole poem forms the most
harmonious and complete version of the story we possess. Wolfram
knew Chretien's poem, but refers to it with contempt as being the
wrong version of the tale, whereas * Kiot' had told the venture aright.
The question then is, where did Wolfram really find those portions of
his poems which he could not have drawn from Chretien ? Is * Kiot '
a real, or a feigned, source ?

Some Gierman critics have opined that Wolfram really knew no
other poem than Chretien's, and that he boldly invented all that he
did not find there, feigning another source in order to conceal the fact
Others have maintained that whether *Kiot' be the name of the
writer or not, Wolfram certainly had before him a French poem other
than Li Conte du Graal.

It certainly seems in the highest degree improbable that a German
poet should have introduced the Angevin element, lacking in Chretien ;
Wolfram's presentment of the Grail, too, differs in toto from any we
find elsewhere, with him it is not the cup of the Last Supper, but a
precious stone endowed with magical qualities. It is true that Chretien
does not say what the Grail was, but simply that ' du fin or esmeree
estoit^ pieres fressieuses avoit el graal de maintes manieres^ yet it seems
scarcely likely that Wolfram should have interpreted this as a precious
stone, to say nothing of sundry Oriental features peculiar to his descrip-
tion. But whence Wolfram derived his idea of the Grail is a problem
which it is to be feared will never now be completely solved.

The discussion as to the ethical meaning Wolfram attached to, the
story seems more hopeful of results, as here we do possess the requisite
data, and can study the poem for ourselves. The question between

INTRODUCTION xiii

critics is whether Wolfram intended to teach a purely religious lesson

or not ; whether the poem is an all^ory of life, and Parzival a symbol

of the Soul of man, hovering between Faith and Doubt, perplexed by

the apparent injustice of God's dealings with men, and finally fighting

its way through the darkness of despair to the dear light of renewed

faith in God ; or have we here a glorification of the knightly ideal ?

a declaration of the poet-knight's belief that in loyal acceptance of, and

obedience to, the dictates of the knightly order, salvation is to be won ?

C^ the true knight, even though he lack faith in God, yet by keeping

intact his faith with man, by very loyalty and steadfastness of purpose,

win back the spiritual blessing forfeited by his youthful folly? Is

Parzival one of those at whose hands 'the Kingdom of Heaven

suffereth violence ' ? It may well be that both these interpretations are,

in a measure, true, that Wolfram found the germ of the religious idea

already existing in his French source, but that to the genius of the

German poet we owe that hutnanising of the ideal which has brought

the Parzival into harmony with the best aspirations of men in all

ages. This, at least, may be said with truth, that of all the romances

of the Grail cycle, there is but one which can be presented, in its

entirety, to the world of to-day with the conviction that its morality

is as true, its human interest as real, its lesson as much needed now as

it was seven hundred years ago, and that romance is the Parzival of

Wolfiam von Eschenbach.

Some words as to the form of the original poem, and the method
followed in translation, may be of interest to the reader. The original
Parzival is a poem of some 25,000 lines, written in an irregular metre,
every two lines rhyming, reim-paar. Among modern German trans-
lators considerable difference of opinion as to the best method of
rendering the original appears to exist Simrock has retained the
original form, and adheres very closely to the text; his version certainly
gives the most accurate idea of Wolfram's style; San Marte has allowed
himself considerable freedom in versification, and, unfortunately, also
in translation ; in fact, he too often gives a paraphrase rather than a
reproduction of the text. Dr. Bötticher's translation omits the Gawain

xiv PARZIVAL

episodes, and, though dose to the original, has discarded rhyme. It
must be admitted that Wolfram is by no means easy to translate^ his style
is obscure and crabbed, and it is often difficult to interpret his meaning^
with any certainty. The translator felt that the two points chiefly to
be aimed at in an English version were, that it should be faithful to
the original text, and easy to read. The metre selected was chosen for
several reasons, principally on account of the length of the poem, which
seemed to render desirable a more flowing measure than the short lines
of the original ; and because by selecting this metre it was possible to
retain the original form of rtim-paar. As a general rule one line of the
English version represents two of the German poem, but the difference
of language has occasionally demanded expansion in order to do full
justice to the poet's meaning. Throughout, the translator's aim has
been to be as literal as possible, and where the differing conven-
tionalities of the thirteenth and nineteenth centuries have made a
change in the form of expression necessary, the meaning oli the poet
has been reproduced, and in no instance has a different idea beea
consciously suggested. That there must of necessity be many faults
and defects in the work the writer is fully conscious, but in the absence
of any previous English translation she can only hope that the present
may be accepted as a not altogether inadequate rendering of a great
original ; if it should encourage others to study that original for them-
selves, and learn to know Wolfram von Eschenbach, while at the same
time they learn better to understand Richard Wagner, she will feel
herself fully repaid.

The translator feels that it may be well to mention here the works
which have been principally relied on in preparing the English transla-
tion> and the writers to whom she is mostly indebted.

For the Text Bartsch's edition of the original Parzival^ published
in Deutsche Classiker des Mittelalters^ has been used throughout, in
connection with the modem German translation by Simrock.

In preparing the Notes use has been made of Dr. Bötticher's
Introduction to his translation of the Parzival^ and the same writer's

INTRODUCTION xv

Das Hohelied von Rittertum \ San Marte's translation has also been
occasionally referred to.

The Appendix on proper names has been mainly drawn up from
Bartsch's article on the subject in Germanistische Studien ; and that
on. the Angevin allusions from Miss Norgate's England under the
Angevin Kings^ though the statements have been verified by reference
to the original chronicles.

For all questions connected with the Perceval legend in its varying
forms the authority consulted has been Studies on the Legend of the
Holy Graily by Mr. Alfred Nutt, to whom, personally, the translator
is indebted for much valuable advice and assistance in preparing this
book for publication.

f

BOOK I
GAMURET

VOL. I.

ARGUMENT

In the Introduction the poet tells of tk« evil of doabt and onsteadfast-
ness— against which he would warn both men and women ; he will tell
them a tale which shall speak of truth and steadfastness^ and in whidi
many strange marvels shaU befidl.

Book I. tells how Gamuret of Anjon at the death of his fiither, King
Gandein, refused to become his brother's vassal, and went forth to seek fiune
and love-guefdon for himself. How he fought under the Baruch before
Alexandria, and came to Piatelamunt. How Queen Bdakan^ was accused
of having caused the death of her lover Eisenhart, and was besieged by
two armies, which Friedebrand, King of Scotland, Eisenhart's wide, bad
brought against her. How Gamuret defeated her foemen, and married the
Queen, and became King of Assagog and Zassamank. How he grew weary
for lack of knightly d^eds, and sailed away in secret from Queen Behtkan^,
and left her« letter telling of his name and race. How Feirifis was bom,
and how Gamuret came to Seville.

BOOK I

GAMURET

iF unfaith in the heart find dwelling, then the soul it shall reap
but woe ;
And shaming alike and honour are his who such doubt sha •

show,
For it standeth in evil contrast with a true man's dauntless
might,
As one seeth the magpie's plumage, which at one while is black and white.
And yet he may wip to blessing ; since I wot well that in his heart, 5

Hell's darkness, and light of Heaven, alike have their lot and part
Bat he who is fiedse and unsteadfast, he is black as the darkest night,
And the soul that hath never wavered stainless Us hue and white !

This my parable so fleeting too swift for the dull shall be,

Ere yet they may seize its meaning from before their fitce 'twill flee, zo

As a hare that a sound hath startled : yea, metal behind the glass,

And a blind man's dream yield visions that as swift from the eye do pass,

For naught shall they have that endureth ! And at one while 'tis bright and

sad,
And know of a truth that its glory but for short space shall make ye glad.
And what man shall think to grip me, where no hair for his grasp shall grow, 15
In the palm of mine hand ? The mystery of a close dasp he sure doth

know!

If I cry aloud in such peril, it 'seemeth my wisdom welL

Shall I look for truth where it fleeteth? In the fire that the stream doth

quell,
Or the dew that the sun doth banish ? Ne'er knew I a man so wise.
But was foin to learn the wisdom my fable doth ill disguise, ao

4 PARZIVAL

And the teaching that springeth from it : for so shall he ne'er delay
To fly and to chase as shall fit him, to shun and to seek alway,
And to give fitting blame and honour. He who knoweth the twain to tell.
In their changing ways, then wisdom has tutored that man right well

35 And he sits not o'er-long at leisure, nor his goal doth he overreach,
But in wisdom his ways discerning, he dealeth with all and each.
But his comrade, of heart unfaithful, in hell-fire shall his portion be,
Yea, a hailstorm that dims the glory of a knightly fame is he.
As a short tail it is, his honour, that but for two bites holds good,

30 When the steer by the gad-fly driven doth roam thro' the lonely wood.

And tho' manifold be my counsel not to men alone I 'Id speak.

For ßün would I show to women the goal that their heart should seek.

And they who shall mark my counsel, they shall learn where they may

bestow
Their praise and their maiden honour ; and the manner of man shall know

35 Whom they freely may love and honour, and never may fear to rue I

Their maidenhood, and the true love they gave him of heart so true. ^

In God's sight I pray all good women to keep them in wisdom's way, |

For true shame on all sides doth guard them : such bliss I for them would

pray.
But the false heart shall win false honour — How long doth the thin ice last,

40 If the sun shineth hot as in August ? So their praise shall be soon o'erpast.

Many women are praised for beauty ; if at heart they shall be xmtrue,
Then I praise them as I would praise it, the glass ofa sapphire hue
That in gold shall be set as a jewel ! Tho' I hold it an evil thing,
If a man take a costly ruby, with the virtue the stone doth bring,
45 And set it in worthless setting : I would liken such costly stone ^

To the heart of a faithful woman, who true womanhood doth own.
I would look not upon her colour, nor the heart's roof all men can see.
If the heart beateth true beneath it, true praise shall she win from me !

Should I speak of both man and woman as I know, nor my skill should
fail,
50 O'er-long would it be my story. List ye now to my wonder-tale :

And this venture it telleth tidings of love, and anon of woe, ■!

Joy and sorrow it bringeth with it. 'Stead of one man if three ye know.

' GAMURET 5

And each one of the three hath wisdom and skill that outweigh my skill,
Yet o'erstrange shall they find the labour, tho' they toil with a right good-
will
To tell ye this tale, which I think me to tell ye myself, alone, 55

And worn with their task and weary would they be ere the work was done.

A tale I anew will tell ye, that speaks of a mighty love ;

Of the womanhood of true women ; how a man did his manhood prove ;

Of one that endured all hardness, whose heart never failed in fight,

Steel he in the face of conflict : with victorious hand of might 60

Did he win him fair meed of honour ; a brave man yet slowly wise

Is he whom I hail my hero 1 The delight he d woman's eyes.

Yet of woman's heart the sorrow ! 'Gainst ail evil his face he set ;

Yet he whom I thus have chosen my song knoweth not as yet,

For not yet is he bom of whom men this wondrous tale shall tell, 65

And many and great the marvels that unto this knight befell.

NOW they do to-day as of old time, where a foreign law holds sway
(Yea, in part of our German kingdom, as ye oft shall have heard men

say).
Whoever might rule that country, 'twas the law, and none thought it shame
CTis the truth and no lie I tell ye) that the elder son might claim 70

The whole of his father's heirdom — And the younger sons must grieve,
What was theirs in their father's lifetime, they perforce at his death must

leave.
Before, all was theirs in common, now it fell unto one alone.
So a wise man planned in his wisdom, that the eldest the lands should own,
For youth it hath many a fair gift, but old age knoweth grief and pain, 75

And he who is poor in his old age an ill harvest alone doth gain.
Kings, Counts, Dukes (and no lie I tell ye) the law holdeth all as one.
And no man of them all may inherit, save only the eldest son.
And methinks *tis an evil custom— So the knight in his youthful pride,
Gamuret, the gallant hero, lost his Burg, and his fair lands wide, 8c

Where his father had ruled with sceptre and crown as a mighty king.
Till knighthood, and lust of battle, to his death did the monarch bring.

And all men were sore for his sorrow, who truth and unbroken faith
Bare ever throughout his lifetime, yea even unto his death.

6 PARZIVAL

^5 Then the elder son he summoned the princes from out his land,

And knightly they came, who rightly might daim from their monarch's hand,

To hold, as of yore, their fiefdoms. So Came they unto his hall.

And the claim of each man he hearkened, and gave fiefii unto each and all

Now hear how they dealt — As their true heart it bade them, both great and

small,
90 They made to their king petition, with one voice from the people all.
That to Gamuret grace and favour he would show with true brother's hand,
And honour himself in the doing. That he drive him not from the land
But give him, within his kingdom, a fair Burg that all men might see.
That he takejrom that Buig his title, and be held of all tribute free ! —
95 Nor the king was ill-pleased at their pleading, and he quoth, 'A small grace,

I trow,
Have ye asked, I would e'en be better than your prayer, as ye straight shall

know,
Why name ye not this my brother as Gamuret Angevin ?
Since Anjou is my land, I think me the title we both may win !.'

Then furthes^he spake, the monarch, ' My brother in sooth may seek
too Yet more from my hand of &vour than my mouth may as swiftly speak,
With me shall he have his dweUii^g— I would that ye all should see
How one mother alike hath borne us ; his riches but small shall be,
While I have enough ; of free hand would I give him both lands and gold.
That my bliss may be ne'er held forfeit by Him, Who can aye withhold,
105 Or give, as He deemeth rightful ! ' Then the princes they heard alway.
How the king would deal well with his brother, and they deemed it a joyful
day r

And each one bowed him low before him. Nor Gamuret long delayed,
But he spake as his heart would bid him, and friendly the words he said :
' Now hearken, my lord and brother, if vassal I think to be
izo To thee, or to any other, then a fair lot awaiteth me.

But. think thou upon mine honour, for faithful art thou and wise.
And give counsel as shall beseem thee, and help as thou shalt devise.
For naught have I now save mine armour, if within it I more had done,-
Then far lands should speak my praises, and remembrance from men were
won ! *

GAMURET 7

Then further ht spake, the hero : ^ Full sixteen my squires shall be, 1x5

And six of them shall bear harness ; four pages give thou to me

Of noble birth and breeding, and nothing to them I '11 spare

Of all that my hand may win them. Afar in the world I 'Id fare,

(Somewhat I ere now have journeyed,) if Good Fortune on me shall smile,

I may win from fair women fovour. If a woman I serve awhile, 120

And to serve her she hold me worthy, and my heart speaketh iiot amiss,

True knight shall I be and faithful ! God show me the way of bliss !

As comrades we rode together (but then o'er thy land did reign

The King Gandein, our father), and sorrow and bitter pain

We bare for Love's sake ! At one while I knew thee as Me/and kmghty 195

Thou couldst serve, and thou couldst dissemble, for the sake of thy lady

bright.
Ah ! could I steal love as thou couldst, if my skill were but like to thine,
That women should show me £ävour, then a blissful lot were mine ! *

* Alas 1 that I ever saw thee,' spake, sighing, the king so true,

* Who lightly, with words of mocking, my heart would in pieces hew 130
And would fain that we part asunder ! One father hath left us both

A mighty store (^riches, I would share with thee, nothing loth.

Right dear from my heart I hold thee ; red gold and jewels bright.

Folk, weapons, horse, and raiment, take thou as shall seem thee right.

That thou at thy will mayst journey, and thy free hand to all be known. 135

Elect do we deem thy manhood, didst thou Gylstram as birthplace own,

Or thou camest here from Rankulat, yet still would that place be thine.

Which thou boldest to-day in my favour ; true brother art thou of mine ! '

' Sir King, thou of need must praise me, so great is thy courtesy !

So, courteous, thine aid be given, if thou and my mother free 140

Will share with me now your riches, I mount upward, nor fear to fall,

And my heart ever beateth higher — Yet I know not how I should call

This life, which my left breast swelleth ! Ah ! whither wouldst go mine

heart?
i would fiun know where thou shalt guide me— 'Tis time that we twain

should part.'

And all did the monarch give him, yea, more than the knight might crave, 145
Five chargers, picked and chosen, the best in his land he gave

8 PARZIVAL

High-couraged, swift to battle ; and many a cup of ^old,
And many a golden nugget, for naught would bis hand withhold.
Four chests for the road he gave him, with many a jewel rare
150 Were they filled. Then the squires he took him who should for the treasure^
care,
And well were they clad and mounted ; and none might his grief withhold
When the knight gat him unto his mother, who her son in her arms did fold.

Spake the woman, as woman grieving : * Wilt thou tarry with me no more,
King Gandein's son ? Woe is me ! yet my womb this burden bore

155 And the son of my husband art thou. Is the eye of God waxed blind,

Or His ear grown deaf in the hearing, that my prayer doth no credence find?
Is fresh sorrow to be my portion ? I have buried my heart's desire.
And the light of mine eyes ; will He rob me, who have suffered a grief so dire,
Who judgeth with righteous judgment ? Then the tale it hath told a lie,

t6o That spake of His help so mighty, Who doth help unto me deny ! '

* God comfort thee,' quoth the hero, * for the death of my father dear.
For truly we both must mourn him —But I think from no lips to hear
Such wailing for my departing ! As valour shall show the way,

I seek knighthood in distant countries — So it standeth with me to-day.'

165 Quoth the queen, ' Since to high love's service thou turnest both hand and
heart.
Sweet son, let it not displease thee to take of my wealth a part
That may serve thee upon thy journey ; let thy chamberlain take from me
Four chests, each a pack-horse burden, and heavy their weight shall be.
And within, uncut, there lieth rich silk of Orient rare,

170 No man as yet hath cut it, and many a samite fair.

Sweet son, I prithee tell me what time thou wilt come again.

That my joy may wax the greater, and I look for thee not in vain ! '

* Nay, that I know not, Lady, nor the land that shall see my face.
But wherever I take my journey, thou hast shown unto me such grace

175 As befitteth knightly honour : and the king he hath dealt with me
In such wise that grateful service his rewarding shall ever be.
And this trust have I, O Lady, that for this thou wilt love him more
Henceforward, whate'er the future yet keepeth for me in store.'

GAMURET 9

And as the venture telleth^ to the hand of this dauntless knight,

Thro' the favour he won from a woman, and the working of true love*s might, i8o

Came a token fair, and its value was full thousand marks, I trow,

E'en to-day an a Jew were craving a pledge, he would deem enow

Such jewel, and ne'er disdain it — 'Twas sent by his lady true,

And fame did he win in her service, and her love and her greeting knew,

Yet seldom his pain found easing — Then the hero he took his leave 185

Of mother, brother, and brother's kingdom, and many I ween must grieve

Since his eyes never more beheld them. And all who his friends had been,

Ere he passed from the land of his fathers, tho' the grace were but small, I

ween,
He gave them of thanks full measure ; he deemed tliey too much had done,
And, courteous, little thought him, that of right he their love had won ! 190

Straighter his heart than straightness ; did one of his praises speak
In a full and fitting measure, then doubt were not far to seek.
But ask ye of those his neighbours, or of men who in distant lands
Had seen his deeds, then the marvel ye were swifter to understand.

And Gamuret he trode ever where Temperance aye should guide, 195

And naught else might rule his doings, nor he boasted him in his pride
But bare great honour meekly ; from loose ways he e'er had flown ;
And he thought him, the gallant hero, that none bare on earth a crown,
Were they King, or Queen, or Kaiser, whom he deemed of his service

worth
Were they not the mightiest reckoned of all monarchs that be on earth. 200
This will in his heart he cherished — Then men spake, at Bagdad did reign
A monarch so strong and powerful, that homage he well might claim
From two-thirds or more of earth's kingdoms. The heathen his name held

great.
And they spake of him as the Baruch, and kings did on his bidding wait,
And crowned heads were his servants ; and his office it lasts to-day — 205

See how Christian men baptized to Rome wend their pilgrim way.
So there was the heathen custom. At Bagdad was their papal right,
And the Baruch as 'seemed his office purged their sins with his word of

might.

From Pompey and Ipomidon, two brothers of Babylon,

Nineveh, the town of their fathers, the Baruch with force had won, 210

lo PARZIVAL

And bravely 'gainst him they battled. Then came the yomig Angevin,
And the Baruch he showed him £avour, yea, he did to his service win
Gamuret the gallant hero — ^And he deemed it were well he bore
Other arms than Gandein his father had given to him of yore.

3X5 Then the hero he well bethought him ; on his charger's cloth they laid
An anchor of ermine fashioned, and the same at his will they made
For shield alike and vesture— And green as the emerald rare
Was his riding-gear, and 'twas fashioned and wrought of Achmardi fair,
CTis a silken stuff,) and he bade them to make of it at his will

^ao Both blazoned coat and surcoat, (than velvet 'tis richer still ;)
And he bade them to sew upon it the anchor of ermine white.
And with golden threads inwoven was the badge of this gallant knight.

And his anchors they never tested or mainland or haven fair
And found in that place abiding — But the hero must further bear

335 Thro* many a land, a brave guest, the load of this heraldry,

And behind the sign of this anchor but short space might his resting be.
And nowhere he found abiding — ^The tale of the lands he saw.
And the vessels in which he sailed him ? If the truth unto ye I swore.
On mine own oath must I swear it, and my knightly honour true

330 In such wise as the venture told me ; other witness I never knew !

And men say that his manly courage held the prize in fisu: heathendom,
In Morocco's land, and in Persia, and elsewhere he high honour won.
At Damascus and at Aleppo, and where knightly deeds should be :
In Arabia and lands around it was he held of all conflict free,
235 For no man might dare withstand him, he won him such crown of fiune ;
And his heart for honour lusted, and all deeds were brought to shame,
And became as naught before him, as all men bare witness true
Who a joust with him had ridden, and Bagdad of his glory knew.

And his heart never fitiled or fedtered, but onward his course he bare
240 To Zassamank's land and kingdom ; there all men wept that hero fieur,
Eisenhart, who in knightly service gave his life for a woman's smile ;
Belakan^ thereto constrained him, sweet maid she, and free firom guile.
(Since her love she never gave him, for love's sake did the hero die,)
And his kinsmen would fain avenge him, and with force and with
subtlety

GAMURET II

Their armies beset the maiden, but in sooth she could gnaxd her well* MS

Ere Gamoret came to her kingdom, and her.wrath on her foemen felL

For the Prince Friedebrand of Scotland, and his host that against her

came
By ship, ere he left her kingdom had she wasted with fire and flame.

Now hear what befell our hero ; storm-driven he was that day,

And scarce might he win to safety, and his boat in the haven lay 250

Beneath the royal palace ; and the folk they beheld him there,

And lie looked around on the meadow, and he saw many tents stand fair

Around the town, save the sea-coast, and two armies he thought to see.

Then he bade them to tell the stor)', and whose that fair Burg should be ?

Since he knew it not, nor his shipmen — And an answer they straightway 255

gave,
'Twas Patelamunt ; then the townsfolk a boon from the knight would crave.
And their speech it was soft and friendly — In the name of their gods they'ld

pAy
He should help them, so great their peril that in danger of death they lay.

When the young Angevin bad hearkened to the tale of their bitter pain,

He proffered to them his service for such payment as knight may gain, 260

(As it oft shall befit a hero) — They should say for what goodly prize

He should dare the hate of their foemen ? And they answered him in this

wise
With one mouth the hale and the wounded— Naught would they from him

withhold,
But lord should he be of their treasure, of their jewels alike and gold,
A fair life should he lead among them ! — But such payment he little sought, 965
For many a golden nugget from Araby had he brought.
And dark as night were the people who in Zassamank dwelt alway —
Alhl the time it seemed long unto him that he need in their midst must

stay —
But he bade them prepare a lodging, and methinks it became them well
The best of their land to give him, since awhile he with them would dwell. 270
And the women they looked from the windows, and they gazed on the noble

knight,
And they looked on his squires, and his harness, how 'twas fiishioned for

deeds of might.

12 PARZIVAL

Then they saw how the knight» free-handed, on his shield of ermine bare
Full many a pelt of sable ; the Queen's Marshal he read it fair,
375 The badge, for a mighty anchor, and little he rued the sight,

If his eye spake the truth unto him ere this had he seen the knight.
Or one who bare his semblance — ^At Alexandria it needs must be,
When the Baruch besieged the city — and unequalled in strife was he !

So rode the, gallant hero, in stately guise and meet ;

280 Ten pack-horses heavy-laden they led first adown the street.

And twenty squires behind them ; and his people they went before.
And lackeys, cooks, and cook-boys, at the head of the train they saw.
And stately I ween his household, twelve pages of lineage high
Rode next to the squires, well-mannered, and trained in all courtesy,

285 And Saracens were among them ; and behind them in order fair
Came chargers eight, and a covering of sendal did each one bear.
But the ninth it Ibore a saddle, and the shield ye have kno^m ere now
Was borne by a squire beside it, and joyful his mien, I trow.
And trumpeters rode behind it, for in sooth they must needs be there,

290 And a drummer he smote his tambour, and swung it aloft in air.

And as naught had the hero deemed it, this pomp, if there failed to ride
Men who on the flute were skilful, and three fiddlers were at their «ide.
And they hasted not nor hurried ; and behind them the hero came.
And his shipman he rode beside him^ a wise man of goodly fame.

295 And much folk was within the city, and Moors were both man and maid.
Then the hero he looked around him, and, lo ! many a shield displayed.
Battle-hewn and with spear-thrust piercM they hung on each wall and door.
And wailing and woe was their portion ; for the knight at each window saw
Many men lie sorely wounded, who to breathe the air were fain,

dpo And e'en tho' a leech might tend them no help might they think to gain
Who were hurt too sore for healing — In the ffeld had they faced the foe.
And such shall be their rewarding who in conflict no flight will know —
Many horses were led towards him, sword-hewn and with lance thrust

through ;
And on each side stood dusky maidens, and black as the night their hue

305 Then his host gave him kindly greeting-^and of joy did he reap his meed—
A rich man was he and mighty, and many a knightly deed

GAMURET <3

With thrust and blow had his hand wrought when his post at the gate he

found ;
And many a knight was with him» and bandaged their heads and bound,
And their hands in slings were holden ; yet tho' sorely wounded still
They did many deeds of knighthood, nor were lacking in strength and skill 310

Then the Burg-grave of the city, with fair words did he pray his guest
S To deal with him and his household in such wise as should seem him best.
And the host, he led the hero to his wife, and courteously
Did Gamuret kiss the lady, small joy in the kiss had he !
Then they sat them down to the table, and e'en as the feast was o*er, 315

The Marshal he gat him swiftly to the queen, and the tidings bore,
And craved from her goodly payment, as to messenger shall be due.
And he spake, ' It shall end in gladness, the grief that erewhile we knew,
We have welcomed here, O Lady, a knight of such gallant mien,
We must thank the gods who have sent him, for our need they have surely 390
seen.'

* Now tell me upon thine honour who this gallant knight may be ? '

* Lady, a dauntless hero, and the Baruch's man is he.

An Angevin he, of high lineage ; Ah me ! little did he spare

Himself when his foemen seeking he forth to the field would fare.

How wisely, with skill and cunning, he avoided the threatening blow, 325

And turned him again to the onslaught ! Much sorrow he wrought his foe —

Ere this have I seen him battle, when the princes of Babylon

Their city of Alexandria had fain from the Baruch won.

And with force from its walls would drive him, and many a man lay dead

>

In the overthrow of their army, for their venture was but ilUsped. 330

And such deeds did he do, this hero, that no counsel was theirs but

flight :
And there did I hear his praises, for all spake of this gallant knight
As one who, without denial, had won him, in many a land.
The crown of true knightly honour, by the strength of his own right hand.

* Now fain would I speak with the hero, see thou to the time and way ; 335
E'en now might he ride to the castle, for peace shall be kept to-day.

|ti Were it better that I should seek him ? He -is other than we in face.

Pray Heaven it not displease him, but our need with the knight find grace !

14 PARZIVAL

I would that I first might know this, ere the rede from my folk I hear
340 That I show to this stranger honour — If it pleaseth him to draw near,
Say, how shall I best receive him ? Shall the knight be so nobly bom
That my kiss be not lost, if I kiss him ?' ' Nay, hold me of life forsworn
If he be not of kings the kinsman ! Lady, this word I '11 bear
To thy princes, that they shall dotfae them in raiment both fit and fair,
345 And stand before thee, in due order, ere yet to thy court we ride.
And the same shalt thou say to thy ladies — In the city he doth abide ;
I will ride below, and will bring him to thy palace, a worthy guest.
For no fair or knightly virtue shall be lacking that noble breast'

But little space they delayed them, for the Marshal, with ready skill,
350 Strove that all in such wise be ordered as should pleasure his tad/s will.
But soon did they bear to the hero rich garments, he did them on.
And this hath the venture told me that their cost should be hardly won ;
And thereon lay the anchors, heavy, and wrought of Arabian gold.
For so had he willed. Then the hero, who £ür payment for love had told
355 A charger bestrode that 'fore Babylon a knight rode, for jousting fain.

From the saddle did Gamuret smite him, and I wot it hath wrought him pain.

If his host thought to ride beside him ? He and his gallant knights ?

Yea, in sooth they would do so, gladly—So wended they up the height,

And dismounted before the palace ; and many a knight stood there,
3^ And each, as was fit, had clothed him in raiment both rich and fair.

And his pages they ran before him, and each twain they went hand in
hand.

And in marvellous fair arraying he saw many ladies stand.

And the queen, her eyes brought her sorrow as she looked on the Angevin,

So lovely was he to look on that he needs must an entrance win
365 Thro* the gates of her heart, if 'twere anguish or joy that within he bore,

Tho^ her womanhood 'gainst all comers had held them fast dosed before»

Then a space did she step towards him, and a kiss from her guest she

prayed;
And, herself by the hand she took him and they sat them, both man and

maid
In a window wide, that looked forth from the palace upon the foe,
370 And a covering of wadded samite was spread o'er the couch below.

GAMURET 15

Is there aaght that than day is lighter ? Then it likeneth not the queen I

Yet else was she fiiir to look on, as a woman should be, I ween,

Bat unlike to the dew-dipped roses was her colour, yea, black as night

And her crown was a costly ruby, and thro' it ye saw aright

Her raven head. Then as hostess she spake to her guest this word, 375

That greatly she joyed at his coming, ' Sir, Knight, I such tale have heard

Of thy knightly strength and prowess— Of thy courtesy, hear me fair.

For faask would I tell of my sorrow, and the woe that my heart dot bear I *

* My help shall not üstil thee, Lady ! What hath grieved, or doth grieve thee

now,
I think me aside to turn it, to thy service my hand I vow ! ^

I am Jiaught but one man only — Who hath wronged or now wrongeth thee
My shield will I hold against him — Little wroth shall thy foeman be ! '

Then a prince he spake out courteous, * The foe would we little spare,

Did our host not lack a captain, since Friedebrand hence must iare.

He defendeth aiar his kingdom — ^A king, one Hemant by name 385

(Whom he slew for the sake of Herlind^) his kinsmen against him came,

And evil enow have they wrought him, nor yet from their strife forbear —

Yet he left here full many a hero, and among them, Duke Heuteger

With his gallant deeds of knighthood, and his army, hath pressed us sore,

They have skill and strength for the conflict. And many a soldier more 390

With Gaschier of Normandy came here, and a hero wise is he.

Many knights hath he brought to this country (and wrathful guests they be) :

Kailet of Hoscurast All these hath he brought upon our fair land

With his comrades four, and his soldiers, the Scottish king Friedebrand I

And there, to the West, by the sea-coast doth Eisenhart's army lie, ^^

And their eyes shall be &in for weeping ; nor in secret, nor openly

Hath one seen them, and failed to marvel at their grief and their sorrow

sore.
Since their lord hath been stain in battle with the heart's rain their eyes run

o'er.'

«

Then the guest courteous spake to his hostess, * I would, an it seem thee

right,
Thott shooldst say why thy foeman threaten, why they seek thee with war- 400

like might !

i6 PARZIVAL ,

Thou hast here maay gallant heroes, it grieveth me sore to see
Thy land thus with hate o'erladen, for woe must it bring to thee.*

* Wouldst thou know ? Then, Sir Knight, I will tell thee— A knight did me

service true,
And the fruit of all manly virtue his life as its decking knew,

405 And gallant and wise was the hero, and his faith as a goodly tree

Was £ist-rooted, and none so courteous but were shamed by his courtesy. .K

And modest was he as a woman, tho' dauntless and strong, I trow,
And a knight e'en as he free-handed ere his day never land might know.
(But they that shall come hereafter, other folk shall their doings see.)

4x0 A fool was he in false dealing, and a Moor, as myself shall be ;
And his father's name was Tänkaneis, a king of a kingly heart,
And his son, he who was my lover, men knew him as Eisenhart
That for love's sake I took his service, as a woman I did not well.
It hath brought me but lasting sorrow since no joy to his portion fell,

415 They deem I to death betrayed him ! Yet such treason were £u- irom

me

d

9

r

Tho' his folk bring such charge against me ; and dear to my heart was he.
Far dearer than tA4fy e'er held him. Nor witnesses here shall fail
To speak to the truth of my saying, if it please them to tell the tale.
His gods and mine, they know it, the truth — I must sorrow deep
4ao Since my womanly shame hath brought him a guerdon I needs must weep !

*Thus he won in my maiden service much honour by knighthood fadr,
I thought thus to prove my lover ; his deeds did his worth declare.
For my sake he put off his harness (that which like to a hall doth stand
Is a lofty tent, the Scotch folk they brought it into this land),

425 Then e'en tho* he bare no armour his body he little spared.

For he held his life as worthless, many ventures unarmed he dared.
As the matter so stood between us, a prince who my man should be,
Prothizilas did men call him, a bold knight, from all cowardice free.
Rode forth in search of venture, and evil for him that day

430 For there, in Assagog's fotest, his death in waiting lay.
In a knightly joust he met it, and there too he found his end
The gallant knight who faced him — Twas Prince Eisenhart my friend.
For both of the twain were piercM with a spear thro* heart and shield,
And I, alas ! poor woman, must weep for that fatal field.

GAMURET 17

And ever their death doth grieve me, and sorrow from love shall grow, 435

And never henceforth as my husband a man do I think to know.'

Then e'en tho' she was a heathen Gamuret he bethought him well,

That a heart more true and tender ne'er in woman's breast might dwell.

Her purity was her baptism, and as water that washed her o'er

Was the rain that streamed from her eyelids o'er her breast, and the robe 440

she wore ;
All her joy did she find in sorrow, and grief o'er her life did reign —
Then the queen she looked on the hero, and in this wise she spake again :

* With his army the king of Scotland hath sought me across the sea, '

For the knight was son to his uncle ; yet no ill can he do to me.

If here the truth be spoken, that is worse than the grief I knew 445

For Eisenhart's death ! ' and sorely she sighed that lady true ;

And many a glance thro' her tear-drops on Gamuret shyly fell,

And her eyes to her heart gave counsel, and his beauty it pleased her well,

(And she knew how to judge a fair face, since fair heathen she oft had

seen,)
And the root of true love and longing it sprang up the twain between. 450

She looked upon him, and his glances, they answering sought her own —
Then she bade them to fill the wine-cup, had she dared, it were left undone,
And she grieved she might not delay it, since to many a hero brave
Who spake with the maids this wine-cup the signal of parting gave.
Yet her body was e'en as his body, and his look did such courage give 455

To the maid, that she thought henceforward in the life of the knight to live.

Then he stood upright, and he spake thus, ' Lady, I weary thee.

Too long methinks do I sit here, I were lacking in courtesy !

As befitting true knight and servant I mourn for. thy woe so great.

Lady, do thou command me, I will on thy bidding wait. 460

Wherever thou wilt, there I wend me. I will serve thee in all I may ! '

And the lady she quoth in answer, ' I believe thee. Sir Knight, alway ! '

Then his kindly host the Burg-grave, of his labour would nothing spare
Lest the honrs of his stay be heavy ; and he asked if he forth would fare.
And ride round the walls of the city? ' The battle-field shalt thou see, 465
And how we would guard our portals ! ' then Gamuret courteously
VOL. I. B

1 8 PARZIVAL

Made answer, he fain would see it, the field where they late had fought,
And the place where brave deeds of knighthood had by gallant hands been
wrought

And noble knights rode with him adown from the palace hall,

470 Some were wise, some were young and foolish, --So rode they around the wall
To sixteen gates, and they told him not one of them might they dose
Since Eisenhart's death called forvengeance— *So wrath^l shall be our foes
Our conflict it resteth never, but we fight both by night and day,
Nor our portals since then we fasten, but open they stand alway.

475 At eight of our gates they beset us, true Eisenhart's gallant knights,

And evil shall they have wrought us ; spurred by anger each man doth fight,

The princes of lofty lineage, the king of Assagog's ban ! '

And there floated before each portal a banner, so pale and wan,

With a pierced knight upon it. When Eisenhart lost his life

4S0 His folk chose to them this symbol, as badge in the coming strife.

' But against these arms have we others, wherewith we their grief would still,
And thus shalt thou know our banner ; 'twas wrought at our lady's will.
Two fingers in oath she stretcheth, that never such grief she knew
As Eisenhart's death hath brought her (true sorrow for heart so true),

485 And so doth it stand the semblance of our queen, on a samite white
Belakan^ in sable fashioned, — Since against us they came in mighty
(To avenge him for whom she sorrows) so she looks from our portals high.
' And proud Friedebrand's mighty army doth to eight of our gates stand nigh.
Baptized men, from o'er the waters. A prince doth each portal hold,

490 And forth from the gate he sallies, with his banners and warriors bold.'

^ From the host of Gaschier the Norman, a count have we captive ta'en,
And heavy methinks the ransoih we may hope from that knight to gain ;
He is sister's son to Kailet, and the harm he to us hath done
His nephew I ween shall pay for ! Yet such prize have we seldom won.
495 Here have we no grassy meadow, but sand, thirty gallops wide
Betwixt the tents and the trenches ; here many a joust we ride.

And further his host would tell him, * One knight, he doth never fail
To ride forth, a fair joust seeking. (If his service shall nought avail
With her who hath sent him hither, what boots it how welliie fight?)
500 Proud Heuteger is the hero, of him may I speak with right

GAMURET 19

For since our besiegers threaten tliere dawneth never a day

But before the gates 'neath the castle^ that knight doth his charger stay.

And oft from that dauntless hero many tokens we needs must bear.

That he smote through our shiekb at his spear-point, and costly their worth

and rare
When the squire from the shield doth break them. Many knights Yore his 505

joust must fiill ;
He would that all men may behold him, and our women they praise him all.
And he who is praised of women, one knoweth that he doth hold
The prize in his hand, and his heart's joy in full measure shall aye be told ! '

But now would the sun, grown weary, its wanderini^ rays recall j

'Twas time that the ride was ended — ^Then he sought with his host the hall, 510

And the evening meal was ready ; and I needs ofthat feast must tell,

Twas laid in a fitting order, and knightly 'twas served, and well.

And the queen with mien so stately she unto his table came,

(Here stood the fish, there the heron) and she counted it not for shame

To ride adown from her palace, that herself she mght be aware 515

If they cared for the guest as 'twas fitting, and with her rode her maidens

fair.
Low she knelt (and but ill it pleased him) and cut as it seemed her best
For the knight a fitting portion ; she was glad in her goodly guest
And she filled for him the wine-cup, and care for his needs would take,
And well did he mark, the hero, her mien, and the words she spake. 5^0

And his fiddlers sat at the table, and over against the knight
Was his chaplain : with shy looks shamefast, he spake to the lady bright :

' I looked not to find such welcome as. Lady, thou gavest me.

Too much must I deem the honour ! If rede I might give to thee.

Then to-day I had claimed naught from thee save was due to my worth alone, 535

Nor adown the hill hadst thou ridden, nor such service to me hadst shown.

And, Lady, if I may venture to make unto thee request.

Let me live but as best befiu me, thou dost honour o'ermuch thy guest ! '

Yet her kindly care she stayed not ; for she stept to his page's se^t

And with gentle words and friendly she prayed them to freely eat, 530

This she did her guest to honour : and the noble lads, I troW,

Bare goodwill to the royal Udy. Nor the queen methinks was slow

20 PARZIVAL

To pass where the host was seated and his lady, the Burg-gravine,
And she raised the golden goblet, and she spake as should fit a queen :

535 ' Now unto your care I give him, our guest, and I rede ye both
Since the honour is yours, to hearken, and do my will nothing loth 1 '
And she bade them farewell, and she turned her, and passed to her guest

once more,
Whose heart for her sake was heavy ; and such sorrow for him she bore,
And her heart and her eyes they answered, and they spake to her sorrow
yea !

540 And courteous she spake, the lady, ' Sir Knight, thou the word shalt say,
And whatever be thy will, I will do it, for I hold thee a worthy guest
Now give me, I pray, dismissal ; if here thou in peace shalt rest,
Ofthat shall we all be joyful* Her torch-holders were of gold.
And four tapers they bare before her, so she rode to her fortress-hold.

545 Nor long at the board they lingered — The hero was sad, and gay,
He was glad for the honour done him, yet a sorrow upon him lay,
And that was strong Love's compelling, that a proud heart and courage

high
Can bend to her will, and gladness shall oft at her bidding fly.

Then the hostess she passed to her chamber, yea, e'en as the meal was o'er ;

550 And a couch did they spread for the hero, and love to the labour bore.
And the host to his guest spake kindly, ' Now here shall thy sleep be sweet,
Thou shalt rest thro* the night that cometh, to thy need shall such rest

be meet'
Then he spake to his men, and he bade them they should hence from the

hall away,
And the noble youths his pages, their couches around his lay

555 Each one with the head toward his master, for so was the custom good ;
And tapers so tall and flaming alight round the chamber stood.
Yet ill did it please the hero that so long were the hours of night,
For the Moorish queen so dusky, had vanquished his he^rt of might
And he turned as a willow wand bendeth, till his joints they were heard
to crack,

560 The strife and the love that he craved for he deemed he o'er-long did lack.
And his heart-beats they echoed loudly, as it swelled high for knighthood fain.
And he stretched himself as an archer who bendeth a bow amain.

GAMURET 21

And so eager his lust for battle that sleepless the hero lay

Till he saw the grey light of morning, though as yet it should scarce be

day.
And his chaplain for Mass was ready, and to God and the knight they sing, 565
For so did he give commandment. Then he bade them his harness bring.

And he rode where a joust should wait him, and that self-same hour would

ride
A horse that could charge the foeman, and turn swiftly to either side,
And answer to bit and bridle if its rider would backward draw.
And the watchers, both man and woman, his helm in the gateway saw, 570

And the anchor shone fair upon it ; and no man ere this might see
So wondrous fair a hero, for like to a god "was he !

And strong spears they bare for his using — How then was he decked, the

knight?
With iron was his charger covered, as should serve for a shield in fight.
And above lay another covering, rior heavy methinks it weighed, 575

'Twas a samite green ; and his surcoat and blazoned coat were made
Of Achmardi, green to look on, and in Araby fashioned fair,
And no lie I tell, but the shield-thongs that the weight of the shield should

bear
Were of silk and gold untarnished, and jewel-bedecked their pride.
And the boss of the shield was covered with red gold, in the furnace tried. 580
He served but for love's rewarding ; sharp conflict he held it light ;
And the queen she looked from her window, with many a lady bright.
And see, there Heuteger held him, who the prize ne'er had failed to gain ;
When he saw the knight draw nearer, in swift gallop across the plain,
He thought, 'Now whence came this Frenchman? Who hither this knight 585

hath sent ?
If a Moor I had thought this hero, my wit were to madness bent t '

No whit they delayed the onslaught, from gallop to swifter flight

Each man spurred amain his charger ; and as fitting a valiant knight

Nor one would evade the other, but would meet him in jousting fair,

From brave Heut^er's spear the splinters flew high thro' the summer air, 590

Bot his foeman so well withstood him that he thrust him from off his steed

Adown on the grass ; but seldom might he win for his joust such meed 1

22 PARZIVAL

And his foe in his coarse rode o'er him, and trode him unto the ground,
Yet he sprang up again, and valiant, fresh lust for the strife he found,
595 But Gamuret's lance had pierced him thro* the arm, and he bade him yield.
And he knew he had found his master, and he spake* from the foughten field,
' Now who shall have o'erthrown me ?' and the victor he swiftly spake,
' Gamuret Angevin do men call me 1' then he quoth, 'Thou my pledge canst
take!'

Then his pledge the knight took, and straightway he sent him within the

wall,
6oo And much praise did he win from the women who looked from the castle

haU.
And swiftly there came towards him, Gaschier of Normandy,
A p^-oud sgid wealthy hero and mighty in strife was he.
And Gamuret made him ready, for a second joust he 'Id ride,
And strong and new was his spear-shaft, and the iron was both sharp and

wide,
605 And the strangers they faced each other — But unequal their lot, I trow,
For Gaschier and his gallant charger full swiftly were they laid low,
And the knight with his arms and harness he fell in the shock of strife ;
If he thought it for good or for evil, by his pledge must he win his life.

Then Gamuret quoth, the hero, * Thou hast pledged unto me thine hand,
610 Yet the weapon it well hath wielded 1 Ride thou to the Scottish band,
And bid them to cease from troubling ; if they to thy will are fain.
Thou canst follow me to the city.' Then the knight hied him o'er the plain.
If he prayed them, or gave commandment, they did at the last his will.
And the Scottish host they rested, and from conflict they held them stilL

615 Then Kailet spurred swift towards him, but Gamuret turned his rein,
His cousin he was, and near kinsman, why then bring him grief and pain ?
And the Spaniard cried loudly on him ; on his helm he an ostrich bare.
And so far as I know to tell ye the knight he was decked so fair
With silken raiment goodly, and long were his robes and wide,

690 And the plain rang clear with the chiming of sweet bells as he o'er it hied.
The flower he of manly beauty, and his fiiimess it held the field,
Save for two who should come hereafter, ai|.d his fimie unto theirs must
yield;

GAMURET 23

But Pamval and brave Beau-corps, King Lot's son, they are not here,
Not yet were they bom, but hereafter for their beauty men held them dear !

Then Gaschier he grasped his bridle. ' Now checked will it be thy race, 6^5

So I tell thee upon mine honour, if the Angevin thou shalt face

Who there my pledge hath taken. Sir Knight, thou shalt list my prayer

And hearken unto my counsel ; in Gamurefs hand I sware

From strife aside to turn thee : stay thy steed then for my sake.

For mighty is. he in conflict ! ' Then aloud King Kailet spake, 630

' Is he Gamuret my cousin, and son unto King Gandein ?

Then I care not with him to battle, no foe shall he be of mine I

Take thine hand from off my bridle' — * Nay, further thou shalt not fare

Till mine eyes have first beheld thee, with thine head. of the helmet bare,

For mi$ie with blows is deafened ! ' Then his helmet the prince unbound. 635

And yet, tho' with him he fought not, Gamuret other foemen found.

And the day had grown to high morning— And the folk who the joust might

Were glad at heart, and they gat them to their bulwarks right speedily,

For he was as a net before them, and none might escape his hold.

And he chose him another charger, so the tale unto me was told, 640

And it flewf and the earth it spumM, and its work could aright fulfil.

Bold when the knight would battle, yet its speed could he check at wilL

And what would he do the rider? His valour I praise alway.

For he rode where the Moorish army to the west by the sea-coast lay.

Thence a prince, Rassalig men called him, forgat not each coming mom 645

(He was Assagog's richest hero, to riches and honour bom

Since he came of a royal lineage) to take from the camp his way

He would fain joust before the city — But his strength it was quelled that

. day
By Anjou's dauntless hero ; and a dusky maid made moan
(Since 'twas s6e who sent him hither) that her knight should be thus 650

o'erthrown.
For a squire brought, without his bidding, to his master, brave Gamuret,
A spear, with light reed-shaft fiaishioned, and its point 'gainst the Moor he set.
And with it he smote the paynim from his steed down upon the sand.
Nor longer he bade him lie there than as surety he pledged Lis hand.

24 PARZIVAL

655 So the strife it had found its ending, and the hero had won him fame ;
Then Gamuret saw eight banners toward the city that onward came,
And he bade the conquered herd the force with his word to stay,
And follow him to the city. And that word must he needs obey.

Nor Gaschier delayed his coming ; and unto the Burg-grave told
660 How his guest sought for further conflict nor his wrath might the host
withhold.
1/ he swallowed not iron as an ostrich, nor his wrath did on stones assuage
'Twas but that he might not find them ! Then he gnashed his teeth for rage,
And he growled as a mighty lion, and the hair of his head he tare.
And he quoth, ' So the years of my lifetime a harvest of folly bear,
665 The gods they had sent to my keeping a valiant and worthy friend,

If with strife he shall be overladen, then mine honour hath found an end ;
Sword and shield they shall little profit— Yea, shame he would on me cast
Who should bring this to my remembrance ! ' Then swift from his place he

passed.
And he gat him into the portal, and a squire towards him drew,
670 And he bare a shield that was painted with a knight by a spear pierced thro',
In Eisenhart's land was it fashioned ; and a helmet his hand must hold.
And a sword that Rassalig carried in battle, that heathen bold,
But now was he parted from it whose fame was in every place ;
Were he slain unbaptized I think me, God had shown to this hero grace !

675 And e'en as the Burg-grave saw it, ne'er of yore was his joy so great.
For the coat-of-arms he knew it— So he rode thro' the city gate.
And without, his guest had halted, young hero he, not yet old.
As one of a joust desirous, and his bridle the Burg-grave bold,
Lahfilirost was his name, he grasped it, and he led him within the wall ;

680 And I wot well no other foeman that day 'neath his spear must fall.

Quoth Lahfilirost the Burg-grave, ' Sir Knight, thott shalt tell to me

If thine hand Rassalig hath vanquished ? ' 'Then our land from all strife

is free ;
For he of the Moors is chieftain, the men of true Eisenhart
Who have brought unto us such sorrow — But now shall our woe depart,
685 'Twas a wrathful god who bade him thus seek us with all his host,

But his weapons to naught are smitten, and to folly is turned his boast 1'

GAMURET 2$

Then he led him in (ill it pleased him) and there met then the royal maid,
And she loosened the bands of his vizor, and her hand on his bridle laid,
To her care must the Burg-grave yield it : nor his squires to their task were

slack,
For they turned them about, and swiftly they rode on their master's track. 690
So men saw the queen so gracious lead her guest thro' the city street
Who here should be hailed the victor — Then she lighted her on her feet,
' Ah me ! but thy squires are faithful I Fear ye lest your lord be lost ?
Without ye shall he be cared for ; take his steed, here am I his host ! '

And above found he many a maiden : then her hands of dusky hue 695

The queen set unto his harness, and disarmed the knight so true.

And the bed-covering was of sable, and the couch it was spread so fair,

And in secret a hidden honour they did for the knight prepare,

For no one was there to witness — The maidens they might not stay.

And the door was fast closed behind them, and Frau Minne might have her 700

way.
So the queen in the arms of her true love found guerdon of sweet delight,
Tho' unlike were the twain in their colour, Moorish princess and Christian

knight !

Then the townsfolk brought many an offering to the gods who had seen

their woe.
That which Rassalig needs must promise ere he from the field might go
That he did, in all truth and honour, yet heavy was he at heart, 705

And afresh sprang the fount of his sorrow for his prince gallant Eisenhart.
And the Burg-grave he heard of bis coming ; then loud rang the trumpet

call.
And no man of Zassamank's princes but came to the palace hall.
They gave Gamuret thanks for the honour he had won in the field that day,
Four-and-twenty had fallen before him, and their chargers he bore away, 7x0
And three chieftains had he made captive. And there rode in the princes'

train
Many gallant knights, in the courtyard of the palace did they draw rein.
And the hero had slept and eaten, and clad him in raiment fair.
Chief host was he, for his body fit garments would they prepare.
And she who afore was a maiden but now was a wife would take 7x5

Her l<Mrd by the hand, forth she led him, and unto her princes spake :

26 PARZIVAL

' My body and this my kingdom are vassals unto this knight,
If so be that his foeroen fearing, resist not his hand of might 1 '

Then Gamuret spake, and his bidding was courteous, for hero meet,
790 ' Sir Rassalig, go thou nearer, with a kiss thou my wife shalt greet ;

And Sir Gaschier, thou shalt do likewise.' Then the Scotch knight proud

Heuteger
He bade on the lips to kiss her (and the wounds won in joust he bare).

Then he bade them all be seated, and standing, he wisely spake :
' I were fain to behold my kinsman, if he who did captive take

725 The knight shall have naught against it — ^As kinsman it seemeth me
That I find here no other counsel save straightway to set him free ! '
Then the queen she smiled, and bade them go swiftly and seek the knight.
And then thro* the throng he pressed him, that count-so fair and bright.
Yet bare he the wounds of knighthood, and bravely and well had fought ;

730 With the host of Gaschier the Norman the land of the Moors he sought.
He was courteous ; his sire a Frenchman he was Kailet's sister's son,
Killirjacac his name ; in the service "of fair women fair meed he won,

And the &irest of men they deemed him. When Gamuret saw his face
(For lilqe were they each to the other, as men of a kindred race)

755 He bade his queen to kiss him and embrace him as kinsman true.

And he spake, ' Now come thou and greet me I ' and the knight to his arms

he drew,
And he kissed him, and each was joyful that the other he here might meet :
And Gamuret quoth unto him, 'Alas 1 cousin fair and sweet,
What doth thy young strength in this conflict? Say, if woman hath sent
thee here?'

740 * Nay, never a woman sent me, with my cousin I came, Gaschier,
He knoweth why he hath brought me — ^A thousand men have I, .
And I do to him loyal service— To Rouen in Normandy
I came, where his force was gathered, and many a youthfiil knight
I. brought from Champagne in mine anny ; 'neath his banner we fain would
fight.

745 Now evil hath turned against him what of cunning is hers and skill.
Thou wilt honour thyself if thou free him for my sake, and cure his ill ! '

GAMURET 27

' Thyself shalt fulfil thy counsel 1 Go thou, take with thee Gaschier,

I would £un see my kinsman Kailet, do thou bring him unto me here ! '

So diey 3in:ought out the host's desiring, and brought him at his behest,

And in loving wise and kindly did Gamuret greet his guest ; 750

And ofttimes the queen embraced him, and kissed him with kisses sweet :

And nothing it wronged her honour in such Mrise the prince to greet.

He was cousin unto her husband, by birth was himself a king.

Then smiling his host spake to him, ' God knows, 'twere an evil thing,

Had I taken from thee Toledo, and thy goodly land of Spain 755

For Gascogn/s king, who wrathful doth plague thee with strife amain ;

'Twere feithless of me, Sir Kailet, since mine aunt's son thou sure shalt be ;

The bravest of knights shall be with thee ; say, who forced this strife on thee? '

Then out spake the proud young hero, ' My cousin Schiltung bade

(Since his daughter Friedebrand wedded) that I lend to the king mine aid. 7^

For the sake of his wife hath he won him, yea even from me alone

Six thousand chosen heroes, who valour and skill have shown.

And other men did I bring him, but a part they shall hence have sailed.

For the Scottish folk came they hither, brave bands who in strife ne'er

feüed.
And there came to his aid from Greenland, strong heroes who bravely 7^5

fought.
Two mighty kings, and a torrent of knighthood with them they brought.
And many a goodly vessel : and they pleased me, those men of might —
And here for his sake came Morhold, who hath cunning and skill in fight'

*But now have they turned them homewards, and that which the queen

shall say
Even that will I do with mine army, her servant am I alway 1 tjo

Thou shalt thank me not for this service, from kinsman 'twas due, I ween.
Now ikine are these gallant heroes, if like mine they baptized had been
And were even as they in colour, then never a monarch crowned
But if they should fight against him, of conflict his fill had found !
But I marvel what here hath brought thee ? Say, how didst thou reach this 775

strand?'
* Yestreen I camcy and this morning I am lord o'er this goodly land t
The queen by the hand she took me, and with love I myself would shield,
For so did my wit give counsel — ' ' Yea, so hast thou won the field.

28 PARZIVAL

Those sweet weapons two hosts have vanquished t ' ^ Thou wouldst say»
since I fled from thee^
780 So loudly on me thou calledst, say, what wouldst thou force from me?
Let us speak of the thing in friendship ! ' ' Thine anchor I failed to know,
But seldom mine aunt's brave husband Gandein, did such token show ! '
* But I, I knew well thine ostrich with the snake's head upon thy breast,
Aloft stood thy bird so stately, nor hid it within a nest ( *

785 *And I saw in thy mien and bearing that that pledge would have 'seemed
thee ill
Which two heroes afore had given, tho* first had they fought their fill.'
^ E'en such fate as theirs were my portion — But this thing I needs must say,
Tho' little I like a devil, were he victor as thou this day
For love of his gallant doings the women had deemed him sweet,

790 Yea, as sugar were fain to eat him I * * Now thou praisest me more than
meet ! '
' Nay, of flattery know I little, thou shalt see that 1 hold thee dear
In other wise ! ' Then the hero bade Rassalig draw anear.

And courteous he spake, King Kailet, ' My kinsman with valiant hand
Hath made of thee here his captive ?' * Yea, Sire, so the thing doth stand,

795 And I hold .him for such a hero that Assagog's kingdom fair

Should fail not to yield him homage, since the crown he may never wear.
Our prince Eisenhart ! In her service was he slain who shall now be wife
To thy kinsman, as knight so faithful he gave for her love his life.
With my kiss have I sealed forgiveness, yet my lord and my friend I lost !

800 If thy cousin by knightly dealing will repay of his death the cost
I will fold my hands as his vassal : and wealth shall be his and fame.
All that Eisenhart from Tankaneis as his heritage thought to claim.
Embalmed here the hero lieth, and I gaze on his wounds each day
Since this spear thro' his true heart piercing, my lord and my king did slay !'

805 Then he drew it forth from his bosom by a silken cord so fine.

And the heroes saw the spear-blade 'neath his robe on his bare chest shine.
And he quoth, Mt is now high morning, if my lord Sir Killirjacac
My token will bear to my princes, with him will the knights ride back.'
And a finger-ring he sent them : dark as hell were those heroes all

810 And they rode who were there of princes, thro' the town to the castle hall.

m

GAMURET 29

As his vassals he gave with their banners to Assagog's lords their land,
And each one rejoiced in the fiefdom he won from his ruler's hand,
But the better part was his portion, Gamuret's, as their lord and king.
And these were the first — as they passed hence their homage they fain would

bring
The princes of Zassamank's kingdom, and they came in their order due, 815
And each as their queen had bade them, they took from his hand anew
Their land, and the fruit it should bear them, as to each man was fit and

right.
And poverty fied from his presence. Now he who was slain in fight
And in life was a prince by lineage, Prothizilas, he had left
A Dukedom fair, and this country which was thus of its lord bereft 820

He gave unto him who much honour had won by his strong right hand.
The Burg-grave, in combat dauntless — With its banners he took the land.

Then Assagog's noble princes took the Scotch Duke, proud Heuteger,

And Gaschier, the Norman hero, to their lord did they lead them there,

And he spake them free for their asking, and they thanked brave Gamuret. 825

Then Heuteger of Scotland with prayers did these knights beset,

' Now give to our lord the armour, as prize for his deeds so brave.

That Eisenharf s life took from us, when to Friedebrand he gave

That which was of our land the glory — Forfeit of joy the knight.

And dead on his bier he lieth, since no love might his love requite — ' 830

And earth knoweth naught so goodly, the helm it was strong and hard,

Yea even of diamond fashioned, in battle a goodly guard.

Then Heuteger sware unto them, if the land of his lord he saw

He would pray of his hand the armour, and send it to them once more.

And this did he swear them freely— Then leave would the princes pray 835

Who stood in the royal presence, and they wend from the hall their way.

And tho' sorely the land was wasled, yet Gamuret scattered free

Such royal gifts and goodly as if laden with gold each tree.

And costly I ween the presents that vassal and friend must share

From the open hand of the hero ; and the queen deemed it right and fair. 840

Full many a bitter conflict had been fought ere the bridal feast,

But peace had the foeman sealed, and the land was from strife released ;

(Nor this song I myself have woven, but so was it told to me)

30 PARZIVAL

And Eisenhart did they bury with honours right royally.
845 To his grave did his kinsmen bear him, and the gold that his lands might

bring
In a whole year long, did they spend there, of their free will they did this

thing.
And Gamuret bade his kinsfolk his riches and lands to hold
And use as they would ; tho' they craved not such boon from the hero bold.

At dawn from before the fortress the foe would their camp withdraw,
B$a And those who were there departed ; many litters with them they bore.
And the field was left unsheltered, save for one tent so great and fair,
And the king he bade his servants that teiit to his vessel bear.
And he said to his folk that to Assagog would he take it, and yet I wot
He did with that speech deceive them, for Assagog saw him not.

855 Now that proud*and gallant hero, his heart gave him little rest

Since he found there no deeds of knighthood, and gladness forsook his

breast ;
Yet his dusky wife was dearer than e'en his own life might be.
Ne'er knew he a truer lady whose heart was from falsehood free.
She forgat not what 'seemed a woman, and with her as comrades good

860 Went purity untarnished, and the ways of true womanhood.

He was bom in Seville's fair city whom the knight would hereafter pray,
When he grew of his sojourn weary, to sail with him &r away ;
For many a mile had he led him, and he brought him unto this place.
And a Christian was he, the steersman, nor like to a Moor in face.
865 And wisely he spake, 'Thou shalt hide it from them who a dark skin bear,
Too swift is my barque for pursuing, from hence shall we quickly fare ! '

Then his gold it was borne to the vessel. Now of parting I needs must tell,
By night did he go, the hero, and his purpose he hid it well ;
But when from his wife he sailed, in her womb did she bear his child :
870 And fair blew the wind, and the breezes bare him hence o'er the waters wild.

And the lady she found a letter, and 'twas writ by her husband's hand ;
And in French (for she well could read it) did the words of the writing
stand :

d

GAMÜRET 31

' Here one love to another speaketh — As a thief have I stolen away

That mine eyes might not see thy sorrow — ^But this thing I needs must say,

Wert thou, e'en as I, a Christian I ever should weep for thee, 875

For e'en now I must sorely mourn thee. If it chance that our child shall be

In fiice like unto one other, then his is a dowry fair,

Of Anjott was Ju bom, and Frau Minne for his lady he did declare.

Yet was he in strife a hailstorm, ill neighbour unto his foe ;

That his grandsire hath been King Gandein, this I will that my son shall 880

know.
Dead he lay tbro^ his deeds of knighthood ; and his ßither the same

death won,
Addanz was his name, and unsplintered his shield hath been seen of none ;
And by birth he hath been a Breton, and two brothers' sons were they,
He and the brave Pendragon, and their sires' names I here will say ;
For Lassalies he hath been the elder, and Brickus was his brother's name, 885
And Mazadan was their father whom a foy for her love did claim.
Terre-de-ia-schoie did they call her, to Fay-Morgan she led the king,
For he was her true heart's fetters ; and my race from those twain did spring.
And fJEtir shall they be, and vali^t, and as crownM kings they reign»
If lady, thou 'It be baptized thou mayst win me to thee again t ' S90

Yet had she no thought of anger, but she spake, ' Ah 1 too soon 'tis o*er.

Of a sooth would I do his bidding, would it bring him to me once more.

In whose charge hath my courteous hero left the fruit of his love so true ?

Alas ! for the sweet communion that we twain for a short space knew !

Shall the strength of my bitter sorrow rule body and soul alway ? 895

And she quoth, ' Now his God to honour, his will would I fain obey,

And gladly I 'Id be baptizM, and live as should please my love ! '

And sorrow with her heart struggled, and e'en as the turtle dove

Her joy sought the withered branches, for the same mind was hers, I ween.

When the mate of the turtle dieth, she forsakeththe branches green. 900

Then the queen at the time appointed bare a son, who was dark and light,
For in him had God wrought a wonder, at one while was he black and white.
And a thousand times she kissed him where white as his sire's his skin.
And she named the babe of her sorrows Feirefis Angevin.
And he was a woodland-waster, many spears did he shatter fair, 905

And shields did he pierce — as a magpie the hue of his face and hair.

32 PARZIVAL

Now a year and more was ended since Gamuret won such fame
At Zassamank, and his right hand the victor's prize might claim,
And yet o'er the seas he drifted, for the winds vexed the hero bold.

910 Then a silken sail red gleaming he saw, and the barqae did hold

The men whom the King of Scotland, Friedebrand, sent upon their way
At the bidding of Queen Belakan^ : from her would they pardon pray
That ever he came against her, tho' in sooth he had lost the more.
And with them the diamond helmet, the corslet and sword they bore,

915 And hosen e'en such as the harness, and a marvel it needs must be

That the barque was thus borne towards him, as the venture hath told to me t
And they gave him the goodly armour, and an oath unto them he swore
That his mouth it should speak their message, an he came to the queen

once more.
And they parted ; and one hath told me that the sea bare him onward bound

9^ Till he came to a goodly haven, and in Seville his goal he found.

And with gold did he pay his steersman right well for his guidance true,
And they parted, those twain, and sorrow the heart of that steersman knew !

BOOK II
HERZELEIDE

VOL. I,

C

ARGUMENT

This Book tells how Gamuret sought for King Kailet, and found him
before Kanvoleis. How the Queen of the Waleis ordered a Tourney to be
holden, and of the heroes there assembled. How Gamuret did valiant
deeds, and was adjudged the victor ; and how two queens laid claim to
his love. Of the wedding of Gamuret and Queen Herzeleide and theii
love to each other. How Gamuret went to the aid of the Baruch, and
was treacherously slain before Alexandria. How the news was brought
to the land of the Waleis ; of the sorrow of Herzeleide ; and of the birth
of Parzival.

BOOK II
HERZELEIDE

OW there in the Spanish country he thought him the king to
greet,
His kinsman and cousin Kailet, and he followed with foot-
steps fleet
To Toledo, but thence bad he ridden unto deeds of knight-
hood fair.
Where many a spear should be splintered, and men thought not their shields

to spare.
Then he thought him to make him ready (so the venture doth tell I ween) 5
With manyi a blazoned spear-shaft, and many a sendal green ;
For each spear it bare a pennon, with the anchor in ermine white,
And well was it wrought, the symbol, and costly in all men's sight.
And long and broad were the pennons, and e'en to the hand hung low
When men on the spear-blade bound them, a span-breadth the point below. 10
And a hundred spears were ready for that true and gallant knight.
And his cousin's folk they bare them, and with him went forth to fight ;
And honour and loyal service they showed him as fit and fair.
Nor I think had their lord been wrathful that his kinsman their love should
share.

1 know not how long he sought him, till shelter at length he found 15

In the Waleis land : 'fore Kanvoleis were pitched on the open ground

Many tents so fair and knightly ; (I speak not from fancy light

But sooth are the words I tell ye if the tale ye would hear aright)

Then he bade his folk to halt there, and he sent on before his face

The chief of his squires, and he bade him to seek them a resting-place. 20

He would fain do his master's bidding, and swift to the town he sped.

And many a pack-horse laden his comrades behind him led.

36 PARZIVAL

And never a house he saw there but its roof was a shield I trow,
And the walls were hung and circled with spears in a goodly row,

«

35 For the queen of the Waleis country had ordered at Kanvoleis
That a Tourney fiiir be holden, and they ordered it in such wise
That a coward had little liked it---for whoever would seek such strife
At his will doth it chance but seldom 1 She was maiden, not yet a wife,
And herself and two lands she offered to him who the prize should hold ;

30 And many to earth had fallen in whose ear had this tale been told.
And he who such fiül must suffer he held that his chance was o'er.
And many a dauntless hero showed knighthood those walls before.
And many a horse rushed onward as the knight spurred to onslaught fierce.
And the sword-blades rang clear on each other, and spears did the shield
rims pierce.

35 A bridge from the plain was builded that crossed o'er the river's flow.
And 'twas dosed by a tower-portal ; nor the squire at his task was slow.
But he opened the gates, unwearied, when one would an entrance win.
And above it there stood the palace, and the queen sat the hall within,
And she gazed from the high hall window with many a maiden fair,

40 And they looked on the squires beneath them to see what had brought them
there.
'Twixt themselves had they taken counsel, and a tent did they rear on

high
For the winning of love ungranted a king wrought it in days gone by,
('Twas in service of Queen Belakane). The squires laboured with might

and main
Till the burden of thirty pack-steeds they raised on the grassy plain,

45 A pavilion rich to look on, and the meadow it was so wide

That the silken ropes that held it might stretch forth on either side.
And Gamuret, their master, ate without in the open air —
And then for his courtly entrance with skill would the knight prepare,
Nor longer might be delaying — His squires take the spears straightway,

50 And they bind them £ast together, and five in each band they lay.

And the sixth in their hand they carry, with its pennon and anchor white ;
So proudly into the city came riding this gallant knight.

Then the queen she heard the tidings that a noble guest was come
From a far-off land and distant, and in sooth was he known to none.

I HERZELEIDE 37

' And courteous his folk in bearing ; both heathen and French I trow, 55

And Angevin, some among them if their speech I aright may know ;

And their courage is high, and their raiment both rich and well shaped

shall be.
But now was I with his people, and they seem me from falsehood free,
And they say, 'Who hath lust for riches, if he to our lord shall seek
He will free him from fear of scarceness ! ' The while I with them did speak, ^
I asked them to tell of their master, and they thought not to hide the thing,
But spake of a true heart freely, ' Of 2^ssamank is he king.'

'Twas a page who brought the tidings — * Ah me ! that pavilion fair !
Wouldst thou pledge thy crown and thy kingdom not half of its cost were

there ! '
' Thou needst not to praise so highly, my mouth ne'er shall say thee nay, ^5
A rich man shall be its owner, no lack doth he know alway.'
And in this wise she spake, the lady, the fair and gracious queen,
^ ' Why Cometh he not to the castle ? For fain I his face had seen.'

This she bade her page to ask him — Then the hero was fain to make
Brave entry into the city, and the sleepers must needs awake. 70

Many shields he saw fair shining — ^The blast of the trumpets clear
Rang loud and long before him, and two drummers ye needs must hear
As they tossed and smote their tambours, and the walls echoed back the

sound.
With the notes of the flutes 'twas mingled as the train through the city

wound,
'Twas a march that they played so gaily — Nor forget we how he must ride 75
^ Their master and lord, he followed with the fiddlers his rein beside.

Then he threw his leg o'er hiis charger, that hero so bold and fair,
And boots did he wear of leather, or else had his limbs been bare.
And his mouth it was e'en as a ruby, and jed, as a fire doth bum,
And full, not too thin ; iair his body wherever the eye might turn ; 80

And fair was his hair and curling, and wherever one saw the skin
I ween 'twas as costly cover as ever a head might win.
* And of samite green was his mantle, and the sable shone dark thereon
Tho* white was his vest, and the gazers they came in a goodly throng.

^ I

3« PAR2IVAL

^5 And many must ask the question, 'Who was he, the beardless knight
Who rode with such pomp of riches ? ' Then the tale it was spread aright,
For they spake it as truth who knew it— So they drew to the bridge anear
The folk of the town, and his people ; and so bright was the radiance clear
That shone from the queen that it thrilled him thro' his strong limbs, that
goodly knight,

90 And he braced himself as a falcon that plumeth its wings for flight.
And the lodging he deemed it goodly ; so thought he that hero wise ;
And his hostess with joy beheld him, the lady of fair Waleis !

Then the king of Spain he heard it, how there stood on the open plain
The tent that at Rassalig's bidding Gamuret as his prize did gain

95 At Patelamunt, and the tidings a knight to his lord would bring —
Then he sped as a deer, joy's vassal I ween was the gallant long 1
And thus spake the knight, ' Thy kinsman, and the son of thine aunt I saw,
And with pomp and in state as aforetime, so to-day doth he hither draw ;
There are floating a hundred pennons full fair by his knightly shield,

zoo And around his high pavilion they stand on the grassy field.
And green as the grass the pennons, and the hero bold doth bear
Three anchors of snow-white ermine on every sendal fair.'

' Hath he come here arrayed for battle? Ah ! then shall men see straightway
How he spurreth him swift to the onslaught, how he striveth in knightly
fray!
105 Long time hath the proud King Hardeiss hb anger against me shown.
Here in joust shall Gamuret fell him, and good fortune shall be mine own ! '

Then straightway he sent a message to Gaschier, the Norman knight,
Where he lay with many a vassal ; and Killirjacac the Bur and bright.
For here had they come at his bidding — ^The twain at King Kailefs side
zio Towards the fair pavilion with a goodly following hied.

And Zassamank's king was joyful, for he held them dear at heart :

And the time over-long had seemed them since they must from each other

part.
This they spake of a true heart truly — And the king he was (kin to know
What knights should be here for the Tourney, who valour and skill should

show.

HERZELEIDE 39

Then spake unto him his kinsmen, * From distant lands they came, 115

The knights whom love's power hath brought here, many heroes of dauntless
fame.'

' Here Utber Pendragon fighteth, and with him his Breton host ;

One grief as a thorn doth vex him, his wife hath the hero lost,

The queen who was Arthur's mother ; a clerk who all magic knew

With him hath she fled, and Arthur doth after the twain pursue ; lao

Tis now the third year since he lost them, his son alike and wife«—

And here is his daughter's husband, ä hero well skilled in strife,

King Lot is his name, of Norway— swift seeketh he knighthood's prize,

But slow are his feet to falsehood, the knight so bold and wise.

And here is his young son Gawain ; as yet he too weak shall be 125

For any deed of knighthood — but now was the boy with me.

And he spake, were he not too feeble a spear-shaft as yet to break

He were fain to do deeds of knighthood, in the Tourney hh part would take !

His lust for strife waketh early ! Here Patrigalt's king hath brought

Of spears a goodly forest ; yet their valour shall be as naught 130

When weighed against the gallant doings of the men of Portugal,

Yea, dölä we in truth may call them, and shields do they pierce right well.

And here are the men of Provence, with many a blazoned shield ;

And here the Waleis, to their onslaught the foemen perforce must yield,

And they ride at their will thro' the combat, for men of the land are they. i35

Many fight here for love's rewarding whose title I may not say.

But all whom I here have named thee now lie, and the truth I tell,

At great cost here within the city, for so the queen deemed it well.'

' And without on the plain they hold them who deem their prize lightly won,

Proud Arragon's haughty monarch, and the brave king of Askalon. 140

Eidegast, he is there from Logrois, and the King Brandelidelein

(The mgnarch is he of Punturtois), there too is bold Lähelein.

And Morhold is there of Ireland, many pledges that knighi hath ta'en ;

And many a haughty German doth camp on that battle plain.

To this country the Duke of Brabant hath come thro' the King Hardeiss ; 145

The king of Gascony gave him his sister the fair Aleiss,

(Tet his service ere that won payment) wrath against me those princes drew :

Now I trust tßtee to think of our kinship— For love's sake do me service true 1 '

. 40 PARZIVAL J

Quoth the king of Zassamank, ' Cousin, no thanks would I have from thee
150 Whatever I may do for thine honour, my will e*en as thine shall be.

Doth thine ostrich yet stand un-nested? Thou shalt carry its serpent's

head
'Gainst thy foeman*s demi-gryphon, my anchor shall swift be sped,
And find in his onslaught landing ; himself shall a haven s^k
Behind his steed on the gravel I If our wrath we be fain to wreak,
155 And ride one against the other, I fell him, or he felleth me — ^

On my knightly faith as a kinsman this word do I swear to thee 1 '

Then Kailet he sought his lodging, and his heart it was gay and light.
Then arose on the plain a war-cry, 'fore the &ce of two gallant knights,
They were Schyolarz of Poitou, and Gumemanz of Graharz,
160 On the plain did they meet together ; ere the eyentide might pass

The knights in their troops they rode forth, here by six and there by three,
And they did gallant deeds of knighthood — nor otherwise might it be.

I-

And now it was fully noontide, and the knight in his tent abode ;

Then the king of Zassamank heard this, that o'er all the field they rode,
165/ O'er the length and the breadth they gallop, and in knightly order fight.'
And thither he rode, the hero, with many a banner bright;
But he rode not in search of conflict, at his leisure he thought to see
What was done by one side and the other of fair deeds of chivalry.
On the plain did they spread his carpet, where the knights in strife would
close,
770 And the shriek of the wounded horses o'er all the tumult rose.

The squires stood round in a circle mid the clash of the ringing steel,
And the heroes for fair fame battled, and the swords sang for woe or weaL
There was sound as of splintered spear-shafts, but none need to question,

Where ?
And his walls were of meeting foemen, by knightly hands builded fair.

175 And so near was I ween the jousting that the maids from the hall above
Might look on the toil of the heroes — But sorrow the queen did move
Since the king of Zassamank did naught, nor mingled him in the fight.
And she quoth, ' Ah ! why came he hither ? I had deemed him a gallant 1

knight ! '

HERZELEIDE 41

(Now tbe King of France, wbose fair wife brought Gamuret sorrow sore
Wlien he fought for her sake, lay lifeless, and the queen sought the wide 180

world o'er
To know if from heathen countries he had come to his land again.
Twas love's power to the search that drove her, for love did her heart

constrain.)

And many brave deeds were done there of many a poor mian bold,

Who yet for the highest strove not, which the queen for their prize had

told.
Herself and her two fair kingdoms, — they thought not such prize to gain, 185
But they battled for other booty, tho' their hearts were for payment fain.

«

Now clad was Gamuret's body in the harness whereby his wife

Might bring to her mind forgiveness, and the ending of bitter strife.

The Scotch King Friedebrand sent it, as a gift, to repay the woe

That with conflict he heaped upon her, nor shall earth of its fellow know. 190

Then he looked well upon the diamond — 'twas a helmet, thereon they bound

An anchor, and jewels so precious were within its setting found ;

Nor small were the stones, but costly, and the weight it was none too light

Of that helmet, and yet he bare it, and decked was the guest for fight

And what was his shield's adorning ? of gold of Araby fair, 195

And the boss it was rich and costly, and heavy the weight he bare.

And the red gold shone so brightly that mirrored the face- therein,

And an anchor beneath of sable — I were fain to myself to win

That wherewith the knight was girded, full many a mark its worth.

And wide was the coat emblazoned, and it reached e'en unto the earth, 200

And I ween that few in battle such raiment shall think to wear.

And if I have skill to praise it, or its value aright declare.

It shone e'en as when there bumeth thro' the night-time a living flame.

And never a tint was faded, and its shimmer as lightning came,

A feeble eye, had feared it 1 And with gold was it all inwroilght, 905

That in Kaukasus' distant mountains from out of the rock was brought

By gryphon daws, for they guarded, and shall guard it unto this day.

And from Araby came the people who stole it by craft away, —

Elsewhere shall be none so precious,— and they bare it to Araby

Where they weave Achmardi and Pfellel, and no vesture like thai shall be ! 210

42 PARZIVAL

His shield, round his neck he hung it — There stood a charger proud,
Well-nigh to the hoof was it armed — and the squires cried the war-cry loud.
And he sprang on his steed as he found it ; and many a spear of might
Did he break with strong hand in the Tourney, and where men did the
closest fight
315 There he brake a way thro' the m^lde, and came forth on the further side,
And ever behind the Ostrich the Anchor did close abide.

Gamuret smote from off his charger Poytewm of Prienlaskors
And many another hero, their pledge must they yield perforce.
But what knight bare the cross he rejoiced him in the hero's valiant deeds,
220 And much did he win by his valour, since he gave him the captured steeds.

Now four banners, with self-same bearing, were led 'gainst that gallant

knight,
(And bold riders they rode beneath them, and their lord was a man of

might,)
And on each was the tail of a gryphon ; and that hinder part I trow
Was e'en as a hailstorm smiting, so rode they in goodly row.
225 And Gascony*s king before them the fore part of that gryphon bare
On his shield ; he was skilled in battle, and his body was armed full fair
As women alone might arm him ; and he rode forth his knights before
Where he saw on a helm the Ostrich, but the Anchor towards him bore.
And he thrust him from off his charger, the brave king of 2U^samank,
230 And made of him there his captive. Here close thronged the knightly

ranks.
And the furrows were trodden level, and their locks must the sword-blade

know,
And many a wood was wasted, and many a knight laid low —
And they who thus fell, 'twas told me, they turned their chargers round
And hied to the back of the Tourney, where none but the cowards were

found.

235 And so near was I ween the combat that the women might see aright
Who there won the prize of valour ; Rivalein that love-lorn knight
With his spear hewed afresh a token, of Loheneis was he king,
And the crash of the splintered spear-shaft did aye with his onslaught ring.

HERZELEIDE 43

Of a knight did Morhold rob them, for he drew him from off his steed

And lifted him up before him (unseemly methinks such deed) 340

And Killirjacac they called him, — and ere this King Lac had ta'en

Such payment from him as in idling a knight from the earth may gain —

So his deeds had been hXr and knightly ; then this valiant man he thought

He would take him with never a sword-thrust, and the knight in his arms he

caught.
Then the hand of the valiant Kailet it smote from the saddle-bow 245

The Duke of Brabant, Prince Lambekein, and the hero was laid alow.
And what think ye they did, his soldiers ? Their swords into shields they

turned,
And with them did they guard their monarch — And ever for strife they

yearned.

Then the King of Arragon smote him Uther Pendragon old.

From his charger adown on the meadow fell the king of the Bretons bold, 350

And the flowers stood fair around him — ^Ah 1 courteous am I, I trow.

Since the Breton before Kanvoleis I lay on such couch alow.

Where never the foot of a peasant hath trodden unto' this day,

Nay, perchance they may never tread there — ^'tis the truth and no lie I say —

No more might he keep his saddle as he sat on his steed of yore, 355

But his peril his friends forgat not, they fought fiercely the hero o'er.

And many a course was ridden ; and the king of Punturtois

Fell prone in his horse's hoof-tracks on the field before Kanvoleis,

And low did he lie behind it — Twas Gamuret dealt the blow—

* Ride on, on thy course, thou hero, and tread thy foemen low ! ' 360

Strife giveth whereon to trample ! Then Kailet, his kinsman true.

Made the Punturtois his captive, tho' he scarce pierced the mlbi6t thro*.

Brandelidelein was prisoner, and his folk thfcy had lost their king.

In his stead another monarch to their host did they captive bring.

And hither and thither sped they, the heroes, in armolir good, 265

And by blows and by trampling kneaded, of alum I ween their food ;

And dark on their skin the swellings, and many a gallant knight

Might speak, as he knew, of bruises he had won him in hard-fought fight.

Now as simple truth I say it, little rest was their portion here^

By love were they forced to conflict, many shields with their blazon- clear, 970

44 PARZIVAL

And many a goodly helmet whose covering the dust should be.

And the meadow with flowers was sprinkled, and green turf ye there might

And there fell on it many a hero, who of honour had won such meed —
More modest were my desiring ! Twould content me to sit my steed.

375 Then the king of Zassamank rode forth a space from the knightly fray
Where a rested steed did wait him, and the diamond he loosed alway.
With no thought of pride in the doing, but the breezes blew fresh and cool,
And the squires unbound his vizor, and his lips shone so red and full.

I have named unto ye a lady — Her chaplain did hither ride,
380 And with him three noble pages, and strong squires were there beside ;
And pack-horses twain they led there, and the will of their queen they 'Id do,
She was Lady of France, Anflisd — Her chaplain was wise and true,
And straightway he knew the hero, and in French should his greeting be,
' Soit le bien venu, mon beau sire ' to my lady as e'en to me,
2^ As queen of France she reigneth whom the lance of thy love doth smite.
And he gave to his hand a letter, and therein read the gallant knight
A greeting fair, and a token it held of a finger-ring —
As pledge of the truth of his mission the chaplain the same must bring
His lady of old received it from the hand of the Angevin —
290 Then he bowed as he saw the letter. Would ye hear what was writ therein ?

^ Here biddeth thee love and greeting a heart that hath ne'er been free
From grief since it knew thy service — Thy love is both lock and key
To my heart, and my heart's rejoicing ! For thy love am I like to die,
If thy love afar abideth, then all love from my heart shall fly.

395 Come thou, and take from my true hand crown, sceptre, and kingdom fair,
It falleth to me as heirdom, and thy love well may claim a share.
As payment for this thy service rich presents I send to thee.
Four pack-horses' chests well laden— I would thou my knight shouldst be
In this the land of the Waleis, 'fore the city of Kanvoleis.

300 I care not if ihe queen shall see it, small harm may therefrom arise.
For fairer am I, and richer, and I think me shall better know
To take the love that is proffered, and love in return bestow.
Wilt thou live in true love as shall 'seem thee? Then here do I bid thee take ^
• My crown as thy love's rewarding — This I pray for my true love's sake.'

HERZELEIDE 45

And no more did he find in the letter — Then his squires once more they 3ps

drew
Oer his head the under-hehnet ; from Gamuret sorrow flew,
And he bound on the hehn of diamond, 'twas harder than blade might pierce,
For he thought again to prove him, and ride forth to conflict fierce.
And the messengers did he bid them to lead to the tent for rest :
And he cleared a space around him wherever the conflict pressed. 310

This was vanquished, and that one victor— Did a knight o'er-long delay

To win to him fame in battle, his chance might he find to-day.

Here twain would joust together ; in troops would these others ride ;

And the customs of friendly combat for a space did they lay aside,

And sworn brotherhood nothing counted Yore the strength of fierce anger's S'S

might,
And the crooked was seldom stradghtened ; nor spake they of knightly right,
What they captured they kept, uncaring if another's hate they won,
And from many lands had they ridden who with brave hands brave deeds
I had done.

And their hurts but little grieved them. Here Gamuret heard her prayer,
And e'en as Anflis^ bade him, as her knight to the field would faxt; 3^

'Twas a letter had brought the tidings — ^Ah ! he giveth his courage rein,
Is it love or the lust of battle that driveth him on amain ?
Great love and strong ^th they quicken his strength into life anew.
Now see where his shield he beareth, King Lot, that hero true.
His foemen to flight had forced him save for Gamuret's strong right hand, 525
His charger in gallant onslaught brake its way thro' the threatening band,
And Arragon's king was smitten irom his horse with a spear of reed,
I ' Schaffilor was his name, and the spear-point which thrust him from offhis steed
Bare never a waving pennon, from paynim lands 'twas brought,'
And the knight made the king his captive, tho' his folk they had bravely 330

fought
And the inner force drave the outer fiu* back on the grassy plairL
'Twas a good vesper-play, yea, a Tourney ; many-spears did they smite in

twain —

^ Then Lähelein 'gain wax wrathful, ' Shall our honour be reft away ?
'Tis the fault of him of the Anchor ! Now one of us twain to-day

46 PARZIVAL

335 Shall lay in short space the other on a couch that he liketh ill ,

For here are they well-nigh victors ! ' Then they cleared them a space at will,
And no child's play it was that combat — In such wise with their hands they

wrought
That a woodland was well-nigh wasted ; and alike from their squires they

sought
' New spears I New spears ! Bring them hither I ' Yet Lähelein he must know

340. Sorrow and shamej for his foeman thrust him down from his horse alow,
And he smote him the length of the spear-iron in a shaft of reed made fast.
And one read of itself his surety, for the knight to the earth was cast.
(Yet better I like to read them, sweet pears on the ground that lie
As thick as the knights lay round him ! for his was the victory !)

345 And the cry arose from many who had fallen in joust before,

* Fly I Fly ! For the Anchor cometh ! ' Then a knight towards him bore,

(A prince of the Angevin country) and grief was his comrade true,

For he bare a shield inverted, and sorrow it taught anew

To the King, for the badge he knew it — Ah ! why did he turn aside ?

350 If ye will, I the truth will tell ye, 'twas given in royal pride
By Galoes the son of Gandein, Gamuret's brother true.
Ere Love this guerdon gave him that the hero in joust she slew.

Then he loosed from his head the helmet : nor thro' grass, nor thro' dust

and sand
Did he make him a way to the conflict, but he yielded to grief's command ;

355 And his thoughts within him battled, that he sought not ere this to hear
From Kailet, his friend and kinsman, how it fared with his brother dear
That he came not here to the Tourney — ^Alas ! tho' he knew it not.
He had fallen before Monthorie-^Sore sorrow was there his lot,
For to anguish did love constrain him, the love of a noble queen ;

360 For his loss had she grieved so sorely that death had her portion been.

And tho' sorely Gamuret sorrowed, yet had he in half a day
So many spear-shafts broken, were it Tourney indeed this fray
Then had he a woodland wasted. Did I think me to count each spear
One hundred in fight had he shattered, each blazoned with colours clear —
365 But the heralds, they won his pennons, in sooth were they theirs of right —
Then toward the fair pavilion he turned him, the gallant knight.

HERZELEIDE 47

And the Waleis squire rode after ; and his was the coat so fair,

All pierced and hewn with sword-thrust, which he did to his lady bear ;

And yet with gold was it precious, and it shone with a fiery glow,

And right well might ye see its richness. Then joy did the queen's heart 370

know,
And she spake, 'A £ur woman sent thee, with this knight, to this distant

land!
Now, courteous, I must bethink me lest these heroes ashamed shall stand
Who have risked their fate in this venture — goodwill unto all I bear.
For all do I count my kinsmen, since Adam's flesh we share,
Yet Gamuref s hand, I think me, the highest prize hath won.' 375

But by wrath constrained they battled till the shadows of night drew on.
And the inner host the outer by force to their tents had brought.
Save for Askalon's king and Morhold thro' the camp they their way had

fought.

Some were winners, and some were losers, and many sore shame had

earned.
While others won praise and honour. Then the foe from each other turned, 380
Here no man might see — He who holdeth the stakes, if no light he show.
Who would cast the dice in the darkness ? To such sport were the weary

slow!

Men well might forget the darkness where Gamuret did abide,

'Twas as day — ^That in sooth it was not, but light shone on every side

From many small tapers clustered. There, laid on the olive wood, »g.

Was many a costly cushion, and by each couch a carpet good.

Then the queen, she rode to the doorway with many a maid of rank.

For fain would they see, those ladies, the brave king of Zassamank.

Many wearied knights thronged after-— The cloth had they borne away

Ere she came to the fair pavilion ; then the host he uprose straightway, 390

And the monarchs four his captives (and many a prince was there).

And she welcomed him with due honour, and she saw him, and deemed

him fair.
Then glad spake the queen of the Waleis, *Thou art host where we twain

do stand,
And I, even so I think me, am hostess o'er all thi& land,

48 PARZIVAL

395 If thou deem it well I should kiss thee, such kiss seemeth good to me ! '
' Thy kiss shall be mine if these heroes, e'en as I, shall be kissed by thee,
But if princes and kings must forego it, 'twere unfit I such boon should crave ! '
' Yea, e'en as thou wilt, so be it, tho* ne'er saw I these heroes brave ! '
Then she kissed, e'en as Gamuret prayed her, these princes of noble line,

400 And he prayed her to sit, and beside her sat the King Brandelidelein I

Then lightly they strewed, o'er the carpet, green rushes yet wet with dew,
And he sat him down upon them whose presence brought joy anew
To the gracious queen of the Waleis ; and love did her soul constrain.
And as Gamuret sat before her his hand did she dasp again,

405 And she drew him once more towards her, and she set him her seat beside.
No wife was she, but a maiden, from whose hand did such grace betide.
Would ye know the name they called her ? Herzeleide the queen was she,
(And her cousin was hight Rischoyd^, King Kailet should her husband be,
And he was Gamuret's cousinX and so radiant the queen, and bright,

410 That e'en though they quenched the tapers, in her presence 'twould still be
light 1
(Were it not that a mighty sorrow his joy which aloft would fly
Had beaten to earth, I think me he had wooed her right readily.)

And courteous they spake to each other : then cup-bearers drew anigh.
And from Assagog the vessels, and their cost might no man deny ;

415 And noble pages bare them, many costly bowls and fair.

Of precious jewels wroughten, and wide, none too small, they were,
And none of them all were golden — ^'twas the tribute of that faXt land,
Which Eisenhart oft had proffered, when love's need nerved his knightly

hand.
And the drink unto each they proffered in many a coloured stone,

420 And of emerald some, and of sardius, and of ruby some wrought alone.

Then there drew near to his pavilion two knights who their word must swear,
(To the outer host were they captive and from thence to the town would

fare.)
And one of them was King Kailet ; and he looked upon Gamuret,
And he saw him sit heavy-hearted, and he spake, * Dost thou sorrow yet
425 For all men they own thy valour ; Herzeleide and kingdoms twain

Hast thou won, and all tongues have said it, to thy praises all men are fain,

HERZELEIDE 49

Be they Britons or men of Ireland — Who speaketh with foreign tongue,
If France be their land, or Brabant, with one voice they thy praise have

sung, . .
That none here both skill and wisdom in strife like to thine have shown.
Trae letter it is I read thee 1 No slumber thy strength hath known, 430

When these knights thou hast put in peril who surety ne'er sware of oldt
Brandelidelein the monarch, and Lahelein, hero bold ;
And Hardeiss and King Schafiilor ; yea, and Rassalig the Moor,
Whom thine hand before Patelamunt overthrew and he surety swore.
Such lesson thou there didst teach him — ^Yea, this doth thy fame desire 435
That with every coming conflict it broader shall wax and higher.'

' The queen sure will deem thou ravest, if in this wise thou praisest me,

Yet I think not that thou shalt sell me, since the buyer the flaw shall see ;

Thy mouth is o'er- full of praises ! Say, how hast thou come again ? '

' The worthy folk of Punturtois, this knight from fair Champagne 440

And myself have loosed, and Morhold who this nephew hath stolen of mine

Will set him free, if on thy part thou wilt free Brandelidelein ;

Otherwise are we captive to them, both I and my sister's son.

But such grace thou wilt surely show us — Here auch vesper-play was run

That it Cometh not to a Tourney this while before Kanvoleis, 445

And in sooth do I know how it standeth 1 Here sit they before mine eyes.

The strength of the outer army — now speak, tell me when and how

They could hold the field against us ? Much fame hast thou won, I trow ! '

Then the queen she spake to the hero from a true heart full tenderly,

* Whate'er be my claim upon thee, I pray thee to let it be. 450

I vvercfain of thy service worthy — If here I my right shall claim.

And thine honour thereby be tarnished, I will leave thee nor mar thy fame ! '

Then he sprang to his feet, the chaplain of Anflis^ the wise and fair.

And he quoth, ' Nay, my queen doth claim him, at her will to this land I

fare.
For his love hath she sent me hither, for his love she afar doth pine, 455

And her love layeth claim upon him and hers shall he be, not thine.
O'er all women I ween doth she love him : here as messengers hath she

sent
Three princes, lads free from falsehood ; and the one is hight Lazident
VOL. I. D

50 PARZIVAL

Of noble birth from Greenland, and in Kärlingen doth he dwell,
4^ And his own hath he made the language ; and the second his name I '11 tell,
Liodarz he, a count his father, and Schyolarz was he hight.
And who was the third ? Will ye hearken, his kinship 1 11 tell aright :
Belleflur she hath been his mother, Pansamur was his father's name,
Liahturteltart they called him, of the race of the fays he came.
4^5 Then they ran all three before him, and they spake, ' Wouldst thy fortune
prove?
(The queen of France doth proffer the chance of a worthy love.)
Thou shalt play the game, and never a pledge shall be asked from thee,
Nor thy joy be to sorrow forfeit, as it waxeth still flsur and free ! '

Then e'en while they spake their errand Kailet he had ta'en his seat
470 'Neath a fold of the royal mantle, and she spake to him low and sweet,

* Now say, hath worse harm befallen ? Methinks I the wounds have seen ? '
In that same hour his wounds and bruises she sought out, the gracious

queen.
With her white hands so small and shapely, which their wisdom from God

must win.
And sore was he cut and wounded on nose and on cheek and chin.
475 He had won for his wife the cousin of the queen who such honour fair

Would show him, herself would she tend him, and her ha'nds for his hurts

should care.

Then e'en as courtesy bade her she spake unto Gamuret,

* The £iir queen of France, it seemeth, her heart upon thee hath set ;
Now honour in me all women, and give what I here may claim,

480 Go not till men judge betwixt us, else thou leavest me here to shame.'
This he sware unto her, the hero, and leave she from him would crave,
And she passed thence, and then King Kailet, that monarch so true and

brave,
He lifted her to her saddle ; and he turned him about once more
And came into the pavilion, where his kinsman and friends he saw.

485 Then spake he unto King Hardeiss, ^ Aleiss thy sister fair

She proffered her love, I took it — Now wedded is she elsewhere,
And a better than I is her husband ! No longer thus wrathful frown.
Prince Lambekein, he hath won her — tho' in sooth she shall wear- no crown,

HERZELEIDE $1

Yet honour enough is her portion — Brabant and Hennegau
Do her ser\'ice, and many a brave knight doth unto her bidding bow. 490

If thy mind it shall turn to greet me let thy favour be mine once more,
And take thou again my service of a true heart as aye of yore.'

Then the king of Gascony answered as befitted a hero brave,

* Yea, soft is thy speech, yet if greeting I give thee as thou dost crave,

Who hath offered to me such insult, men will deem fear such g^ace hath 495

won.
For captive am I to thy cousin ! ' * Yet ill shall he deal with none,
Gamuret, he shall grant thy freedom, that boon my first prayer shall be :
No man shall thereto constrain thee, yet my service the day shall see
When thou as thy friend shalt claim me. For the shame, 'tis enow I wot.
For whate'er thou mayst do against me, thy sister, she slayeth me not ! ' 500

Then all at his words laughed loudly. But their mirth it was soon o'erpast
For hi» true heart the host constrained, and desire held him once more fast,
And a sharp goad I ween is sorrow — Then the heroes they saw right well
How he wrestled anew with sorrow and his joy in the conflict fell ;
And his cousin he waxed right wrathful, and he spake, ' Now thou doest ill.' 505

* Nay, nay, for I needs must sorrow, and naught may my yearning still
For the queen I have left behind me, afar on a heathen shore.

Pure wife and true is that lady, and my heart she hath wounded sore.'

' And her purity doth constrain me to mourn for her love so sweet,
Vassals and lands she gave me ; yet joy for a true knight meet 510

Belakan^ of that hath robbed me 1 yet shame for a wavering mind
I think me is right and manly — With such fetters her love did bind
That she held me afar from Tourney, nor in search of strife I went ;
Then I thought me that deeds of knighthood should free me from ill-content,
And here have I somewhat striven — Now many a fool would say 515

That Ij for her colour, fled her, to my eyes was she light as day !
For her womanhood true I sorrow ; o'er all others her worth stood high
As the boss from the shield outstandeth. And another grief have I,
And here make I my moan unto ye, my brother's arms I saw.
But the shield on which they were blazoned, with point up-turned they 590
bore.*

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(Ahl woe for the words tliat are spoken, and the tidings of grief they

bring !)
' His eyes they overflowed with water, that gallant Spanish king,

* Alas ! O queen for thy madness, thro' thy love is Galoes slain.
Whom every foithful woman from her heart shall mourn amain

535 If she would that her dealing win her true honour in true man's thought
Ah ! queen of Auvergne I think me, tho' small grief it to thee hath brought.
Yet thro^ thee have I lost my kinsman, tho' his ending was fit and fiür.
For a knightly joust hath slain him who thy token in strife would bear !
And these princes here, his comrades, their heartfelt grief they show,

S30 As in funeral train their shidd's-breadth do they turn to the earth below,
For thus hath great sorrow taught them — In this guise do they knightly

deeds.
Heavy-hearted that he, my cousin, serveth no more for true love's meed ! '

He hath won him another heart-grief as his brother's death is told,

And he spake aloud in his sorrow, * Now mine anchor hath found its hold

535 And its haven in bitter rueing,' and the badge did he lay aside,
And his grief taught him bitter anguish, and aloud the hero cried,
' Galoes of Anjou I henceforward shall never a man deny
That on earth ne'er was bom thine equal for manhood and courtesy,
And the fruit of a free hand knightly from thine heart did it bloom amain.

540 Ah ! woe is me for thy goodness ! ' then to Kailet he spake again,

* How goeth it with Schoett^, my mother, of joy bereft?'

* So'that God hath had pity on her ! When Gandein this life had left.
And dead was Galoes thy brother, and thou wert not by her side.

And she saw thee no more, then death brake her heart, and she too hath
diedl'

545 Then out quoth the Gascon Hardeiss, * Turn thy will to a manly mien.
Thou shalt mourn but in fitting measure if true manhood thine own hath

been ! '
But too great was the load of his sorrow, and the tears as a flood must

flow
From his eyes — ^Then all things he ordered that the knights a fair rest

might know,
And he went where he saw his chamber, of saniite the little tent,
550 And in grief and sore lamentation the hours of the night he spent

HERZELEIDE 53

.When there dawned another morning the knights together came,
The inner host and the outer, all who thought there to win them fame ;
Were they young or old, were they cowardly or hrave, they fought not that day.
And the light grew to middle morning : yet so worn were they with the fray,
And the horses so spent with spurring, that the knights in battle tried S55

Were yet by weariness vanquished — Then the queen herself would ride.
And the valiant men from the open would she bring to the town again,
And the best of the knights within there she bade ride to the Leo-plain ;
And straightway they did her bidding, and they rode in their knightly ranks,
And they came ere the Mass was ended to the sad king of Zassamank. 560

Then the benediction spoken, Herzeleide the queen she came,

And e'en as the folk upheld her, so she laid to the knight her claim :

Then he spake, * A wife have I Lady, and than life shall she be more dear.

Yea, and e'en if I were without her thou another tale shouldst hear

That afar should drive me from thee, if men here shall list my right t ' 5^5

But the queen she looked upon him, and she spake to the gallant knight :

' Thou shalt leave thy Moorish lady for my love ; stronger far shall be
The blessing that baptism giveth ! From heathendom set thee free,
And wed me in Christian marriage, since my heart for thy love doth yearn.
Or say shall the French queen's message to my shame and my sorrow turn ? 570
Sweet words did they speak her people, and thou heardest them to the

end ! '
^ Yea, she is in truth my lady. When I back to Anjou must wend.
Then fair counsels and courteous customs with me from her land I brought ;
Yea, even to-day doth she help me whom from childhood to man she taught.
She hath fled all that mars a woman— We were children then, she and 1, 575
Yet gladly we saw each other in the days that are long gone by !
The noble queen AnfliS^, in true womanhood hath she share,
From her lands a goodly income she gave me, that lady fair,
(In those days was I still a poor man), yet I took it right willingly,
As a poor man thou still shalt count me, and Lady, shalt pity me, 580

He is dead, my gallant brother — Of thy courtesy press mc not,
Turn thy love where thou findest gladness, for sorrow is aye my lot ! '

' Nay, let me not longer sorrow ; how wilt thou deny my claim ? '

' Thy question I '11 gladly answer, here a Tourney thou didst proclaim,

54 PARZIVAL

585 That Touroey hath not been holden, as many shall witness bear *

' For the vesper-play hath marred it ! The knights who had foughten there
So well have they tamed their ardour that the Tourney hath come to naught,'
* I did but defend thy dty with others that bravely fought ;
Thou shouldst force me not to withstand thee, here have others done more
than I,

590 Mine the greeting that ail may claim here, other right would I still deny ! '

Then, so hath the venture told me, they chose them, both man and maid,
A judge o'er the claim of the lady, and their cause they before him Uud,
And it drew near to middle morning, and thus did the verdict run,
' What knight hath bound on his helmet, and hath hither for conflict come,
595 And hath fought, and the prize hath holden, then that knight he shall wed

the queen.'
And unto the judgment spoken the knights gave consent I ween.
Spake the queen, ' Mine thou art, and I '11 yield thee fair service thy love

to gain.
And will give thee of joy such portion that thy life shall be free of pain ! '

And yet bare he grief and sorrow — Now the April sun was o'er,
600 And had left behind a token in the garment the meadow bore.

With short green grass was it covered, so that coward hearts waxed bold,
And won afresh high courage ; and the trees did their buds unfold
In the soft sweet air of the May-tide, and he came of the fairy race
That aye loveth, or sweet love seeketh, and his friend she would show him
grace.

^5 Then he looked on Queen Herzeleide, and he spake to her courteously,
^ If in joy we would live, O Lady, then my warder thou shalt not be,
When loosed from the bonds of sorrow, for knighthood my heart is fain ;
If thou boldest me back from Tourney I may practise such wiles again
As of old when I fled from the lady whom I won with mine own right hand ;

610 When/rom strife she would fain have kept me I fled from her folk and laud ! '
Then she spake, ' Set what bonds thou wiliest, by thy word will I still abide.'
' Many spears would I break asunder, and each month would to Tourney

ride,
Thou shalt murmur not O Lady when such knightly joust I'ld run ! '
This she sware, so the tale was told me, and the maid and her lands he won.

HERZELEIDE 55

The three page& of Queen Anflis^ and her chaplain were nigh at hand, 615

As the judgment was sealed and spoken they must hearken and understand,'

And he spake to the knight in secret, j To my lady this tale was told

How at Patelamunt thy valour did the guerdon of victory hold,

And that there two kingdoms served thee — And she too hath lands I trow,

And she thinketh herself Xq give thee, and riches and gold enow! ' ^^

* As knighthood of old she taught me so must I hold fast alway

By the strength of the knightly order, and the rule of the shield obey.
Thro' her my shield have I won me, else perchance I had worn it not,
Here doth knightly verdict bind me, be sorrow or joy my lot.
Go ye homeward, and bear my service, her knight will I ever be, 625

And for her is my deepest sorrow tho' all crowns were awaiting me ! '
Then he proffered to them of his riches, but his gifts did they cast aside.
Yet was she not shamed their lady, tho' homeward they needs must ride !
And they craved not leave, but they rode thence, as in anger ye oft shall

find,
And the princes' sons, her pages, well-nigh did they weep them blind. 630

They who bare their shields inverted their friends spake to them this word,
'The queen, fair Herzeleide, hath the Angevin for her lord.'

* Say, who from Anjou hath fought here ? Our lord is, alas, elsewhere ;
He seeketh him fame 'gainst the heathen, and grief for his sake we bear ! '

' He who shall be here the victor, who hath smitten full many a knight, ^35

He who smote and pierced so fiercely, he who bare on his helm of light

An anchor rare and costly, that knight is the knight we mean,

And King Kailet he spake his title, Gamuret Angevin — I ween

Good fortune doth here befall him ! ' Then smit to their steeds they

sprung,
And their raiment was wet with the tear-drops that grief from their eye-fids 640

wrung,
When they came where their lord was seated they gave him a welcome fair,
And he in his turn would greet them, and sorrow and joy were there.

Then he kissed his knights so faithful, and spake, * Ye no more shall make
Such measureless moan for my brother, his place I with ye will take.
Turn your shields again as befits them, and as men who would joyful fare ; 645
My anchor hath struck its haven ; my father's arms 1 11 bear,

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For the anchor it is a symbol that befitteth a wandering knight,
He who willeth may take and wear it I must rule my life aright
As now shall become my station : I am rich now, when shall I be
^ The lord of this folk ? For my sorrow it worketh but ill to me.
Queen Heneleide, help me that thou and I may pray
The kings that are here and princes for my service awhile to stay,
Till thou unto me hast yielded that which love from true love may crave ! '
Thus both of them made petition, and the heroes their promise gave.

655 Then each one went to his chamber, and the queen to her knight spake low,
' Now yield thyself to my tending, and a hidden way 1 11 show I '
For his guests did they care as fitting tho' the ho&t was no longer there.
The folk they were all together, but the knight he alone must fifire
Save for two of his pages only — Then the queen and her msudens bright

660 They led him where gladness waited, and his sorrow was put to flight.
And regret was o'erthrown and vanquished— And his heart it waxed high

and brave
As is ever the lot of lovers ! and her maidenhood she gave
The queen, fair Herzeleide : nor their lips did they think to spare,
But close did they cling in kisses ; grief was conquered by joy so fair !

^5 Then courteous deeds "were begun there ; for free were his captives set,
And the Kings Hardeiss and Kailet were made friends by Gamuret.
And such marriage feast was holden that he who had proudly thought
Hereafter to hold such another much riches thereto had brought
For this did Gamuret purpose, his wealth he would little spare,

670 But Arabian gold did he scatter mid the poor knights ; and jewels rare
Did he give to the kings and princes who were there with the host I ween ;
And glad were the wandering players, for rich gifts had their portion been.

Let them ride whom he there had feasted, from the Angevin leave they

prayed.
Then the panther the badge of his father on his shield they in sable laid ;
675 And a small white silken garment, a shift that the queen did wear,
That had touched her naked body who now was his wife so fair,
This should be his corslet's cover. And of foemen it saw eighteen
Pierced thro' and hewn with sword-blade ere he parted from her his queen.

HERZELEIDE 57

And aye as her love came homeward on her body that shift she drew :
And many a shield had he shattered ; and their love it waxed strong and 680
true.

And honour enow was his portion ere his manly courage bore

The knight o'er the seas to conflict, for his journey I sorrow sore.

For there came unto him true tidings, how the Baruch, his lord of old,

Was beset by mighty foemen, by Babylon's princes bold :

And the one he was called Ipomidon, and Pompey his brother's name 685

(For so hath the venture told me), a proud man of warlike fiame.

CTwas not he whom Julius Caesar had driven from Rome of yore).

His uncle was Nebuchadnezzar, who in books found the lying lore

That he himself should a god be, (o'er this would our folk make sport)

And of noble race these brothers, hor of strength nor of gold spared aught. 690

From J^inus they came who was ruler ere ever Bagdad might be,

Nineveh did he found — Now an insult and a shame vexed them bitterly,

The Baruch as vassals claimed them — So the combat was won and lost,

And bravely the heroes battled, and on each side they paid the cost.

Thus Gamuret sailed the water, and aid to the Baruch brought, ^5

And gladly he bade him welcome ; tho' I weep that that land he sought!

How it chanced there, how went the conflict, gain or loss, how the thing

might be
Naught of that knew Queen Herzeleide ; and bright as the sun was she,
And her form it was fair to look on, and both riches had she and youth.
And more than too much her gladness t I think me in very truth 700

She had sped past the goal of all wishes — And on wisdom her heart was set.
And she won from the whole world favour ; her fiur deeds with fair guerdon

met.
And all men praised Herzeleide, the queen, as both fair and true.
And the queen of three kingdoms was she, of Waleis and fair Anjou,
Of these twain was she aye the ruler ; and beside them in far Norgals 705

Did she bear the crown and sceptre, in the city of Kingrivals.
And so dear did she hold her husband, if never a maid might win
So gallant a man, what recked she ? She counted it not for sin.

As for half a year he was absent she looked for his coming sure.

For but in the thought of that meeting might the life of the nueen endure. 71P

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Then brake the sword of her gladness thro' the midst of the hilt in twain,
Ah me I and alas 1 for her mourning, that goodness should bear such pain
And faith ever waken sorrow ! Yea, so doth it run alway
With the life of men, and to-morrow must they mourn who rejoice to-day !

715 So it chanced that the queen one noontide in a restless slumber lay,
Twas as if with a start she wakened and by lightning was borne away.
And towards the clouds it bare her, and they smote her with mighty force,
The fiery bolts of Heaven, as they sped on their downward course.
And sparks sprang from her floating tresses mid the fire of the circling
spheres,
720 And the thunder crashed Joud around her, and the rain-drops were burning
tears.

For a little space was she conscious, then a grip on her right hand fell,
And, lo ! it was changed, the vision, and wondrous things befell ;
For then did she nurse a dragon, that forth from her body sprung.
And Its dragon life to nourish awhile at her breast it hung,
725 Then it fled from her sight so swiftly she might look on it never more :
And her heart it brake for the anguish, and the terror and grief she bore.

And never methinks a woman in slumber such woe hath seen,
But now had she been so joyful, alas I all was changed I ween,
And sorrow should be her portion, and her ill it waxed long and wide,
730 And the shadow of coming sorrow did still on her heart abide.

Then she did what afore she could not, for the terror that on her lay,
She stretched her limbs in her slumber, and moaned in her grief alway,
And she cried alpud on her people ; and many a maid sat by
And they sprang to her side at her sunmions, and wakened her speedily.

735 Then Tampaneis he came riding, of her husband's squires the chief,
And many a page was with him, and joy's goal was o'erpassed in grief,
And they cried, ' He was dead, their master ! ' And her senses forsook thequeen.
And she fell aback in her anguish — And the knights spake, ' How hath this

been?
Hath our lord been slain in his harness, who ever was armed so well ? '

740 And tho' sorely the squire must sorrow, to the heroes the tale he Id tell :

HERZELEIDE 59

' No long life should he have, my master 1 His helm he put ofT awhile,

The heat thereto constrained him — ^^was accursed heathen guile

That stole him from us, our hero— A knight took a' he-goafs blood.

And from a long glass he poured it on the helmet of diamond good,

And softer than sponge grew the diamond. May He Whom as Lamb they 745

show
With the Cross in His hold, have mercy on the deeds that are wrought below !*

* Then when one host met the other : Ah I that was indeed a. fight,
And the knights who were with the Baruch they fought all as men of might,
And there in the field by Bagdad full many a shield was pierced, '
As they fiew each one on the other, and they mingled in charges fierce, 750
And banner was mixed with banner, many fell who had bravely fought,
And my lord's hand it did such wonders that his foemen became as nought,
But Ipomidon he came riding, and with death would reward the knight,
And he smote him down, and I think me many thousands they saw that
sight '

*' For my master, free from falsehood, rode against Alexandria's king, 755

But, alas ! for the guile of the heathen, this joust but his death should bring,
For the spear cut sheer thro' the helmet, and it pierced thro' my master's

brain
(In his head did they find the splinters), yet the hero still held the rein,
And dying he rode from the combat, o'er a wide plain his way held take,
And his chaplain he knelt above him, and in few words his shrift he spake. 7^
And he sent here the shift and the spear-blade that hath robbed us of our

friend.
He died free from sin — us his servants he did to the queen commend 1 '

' At Bagdad was the hero buried, and the Baruch the cost would pay.

With gold is it fair to look on, and rich is the tomb alway ;

And many a costly jewel doth gleam where he lies at rest, 7^5

And embalmed was the fair young body (sad was many a faithful breast) ;

And the grave-stone it is a ruby, and thro' it he shineth clear,

And they granted us as with martyrs, the cross o'er his tomb to rear, —

For as Christ by His death hath freed us, and to comfort that sonl so brave,

And itx shelter we nused the symbol— And the Baruch the cost he gave 770

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For the cross was of emerald wroughten : heathen counsel we asked it not.
For they know not the Cross, nor the blessing that Christ's death won for us

I wot !
And the heathen they pray unto him as if he were a god in truth,
Nor they do it the Cross to honour, nor hath Baptism taught them ruth
775 (Tho' it looseneth us from Hell's fetters when the uttermost day shall dawn),
But his knightly faith and honour, who leaveth us here forlorn,
Have wrought him a place in Heaven where he shineth with Heaven's light,
And true penitence and confession — ^for falsehood e'er fled that knight.'

*■ And there in his diamond helmet an epitaph did they grave,
780 And fast to the cross they fixed it o'er the tomb of that hero brave,

And- thus do they run the letters : ^ {Through this helmet a joust hath slain
This hero who bare all manhood^ and Gamuret was his name^
As king did he rule c^er three kingdoms^ in each land- the Crown he wore
Whom mighty princes followed— Anjoiis land this hero bore^
785 And he lost his life for the Baruch at the city of Bagdad fair.

And so high did it soar, his honour^ that no knight f nay with him compare^
Howler ye may test their dealings. Nor is he of woman bom^
(/ mean of the knightly order) to whose hand he his strength had sworn.
But help and true manly counsel to his friends did he steadfast give ;
790 And thrd women much grief he suffered^ for he would in their favour live.
Baptised was he as a Christian thd Saracens mourn himyety
{This is truth and no lie) — All his lifetime since his years were on wisdom set
His strength strove for fame andhonour^ till he fell in his knightly pride^
Wish him bliss who here lieth buried/ ^Twas by treasofis hand he died! '

7v5 So spake the squire, and the Waleis who heard it must weep full sore,
Cause hast they enow for sorrow ! A living child she bore
Who of men was left unaided, Herzeleide the gracious queen,
With death the mother battled : her maidens were crazed I ween,
Since they thought not to help their lady, for within her womb she bare

Soo Him who should be flower of all knighthood, if death did not claim him
there.
Then there came a wise man ancient to weep with his lady's grief,
And he saw how with death she struggled, and he brought to her swift relief;
For he forced her teeth asunder, and betwixt her lips they pour
Water, and at their tending her senses they came once more.

HERZELEIDE 6i

Then she spake, and aloud she mourned him, ' My heart's dearest, Ah i 805

where is he ?
For in sooth my heart's deepest gladness was in Gamuref s chivalry,
Yet his valour of this hath robbed nie — Now his mother am I and wife^
Tho* far younger was I, for within me do I carry his flesh and fife ;
The love that we bore to each other hath been of such flower the root,
And if God shall in truth be faithful. He withholdeth not here the fruit. 810

Already too sore my sorrow for my husband so proud and brave,
What ill death hath wrought upon me ! Her love never woman gave.
But his heart it rejoiced in her gladness, and sad for her grief was he.
Thus his true heart it gave him counsel who was aye from all falsehood free.'

Now hearken yet more the story how the noble queen must mourn, 815

Within her arms would she hold him, her child who was yet unborn,

And she spake, ' Now God send me safely the child of my hero fair.

For this is my heart's petition ; God keep me from dark despair,

'Twere Gamuref s second slaying if I thought myself to slay

While I bear of his love the token who was faithful to me alway ! ' Sao

Then careless of who might see her, the robe from her neck she tore.
And her fair white breasts she tended with the wisdom of mother-lore.
To her rosy lips she pressed them, ' Ah, thou food that shall feed my son,
He hath sent thee before his coming who life from my life hath won ! '

And the queen it nothing vexed her that above her heart it lay 835

The milk that her child should nourish, and softly she spake alway,

'Twas true love that brought thee hither, if I yet unbaptized should be

From thee had I won my baptism, and the tears which shall flow so free,

And openly and in secret will I mourn for my husband dear ! '

Then the shift with his life-blood crimsoned she badie them to bring anear, 850

(Thus clad in the Baruch's army had Gamuret lost his life.

For he chose him a gallant ending in the turmoil and stress of strife),

And then for the spear she prayed them wherewith was her husband slain,

From Nineveh's Prince Ipomidon such guerdon he needs must gain.

And tho' tattered and hewn to pieces yet the queen fain the shift would wear, 835

As aforetime had been her custom when her lord did from Tourney fare,

«

But her maidens who stood around her they took it from out her hand,
And they carried them to the Minster, the highest from out her land,

62 PARZIVAL

And the spear and the blood they buried as men bury a hero dead,
840 And sorrow and bitter mourning thro* Gamuret's kingdom spread.

And when fourteen days were ended a babe lay the queen beside,

'Twas a son, and so great and goodly that the mother had well-nigh died.

Now 'tis cast the die of the venture, and here doth my tale begin,
For now is he bom who henceforward this song for his own shall win.
845 And now have ye heard the story of his father, his love and grief.
Of his gallant life, and the treason that ended its span so brief ;
And ye know whence he came, the hero of this tale, and how for long
He was hidden from deeds of knigjithood, till his youth it waxed bold and
strong.

When the queen found sight and hearing she was fain on her child to look,
850 And her maidens they bare him to her and the babe in her arms she took ;
And she saw his limbs soft rounded, and she knew she had bom a son^
And her maidens with her were joyful that the earth had a man-child won.
(As he bare of a man the body, so manly was he of heart,
As a smith did he wield the sword-blade till fire from the helm would start)
S55 And no joy did she know, the mother, save ever her babe to kiss.

And with soft words she spake to him ever, ^Bonfils^ Cherfils^ Beaufils,^

And e'en as herself she bare him, so herself she his nurse would be, -
At his mother's breast was he nourished who was ever from falsehood free.
And she thought she had won her husband by her prayers to her arms
again,
860 She all folly forsook, and meekness and truth in her heart did reign.

And musing spake Herzeleide, ' The queen of Heaven high
Gave her breast to the dear Lord Jesu Who a bitter death would die
As Man on the cross for man's sake, for thus did His love begin :
Who thinketh light of His anger his soul's peace shall hardly win,

865 Tho' he else were brave man and worthy— and this tale do I know fortme ! '
Then the queen of the land she bathed her in heart sorrow's bitter dew.
And her eyes on the babe rained tear-drops as soft in her arms it lay,
For hers was the way of women, where a trae heart holdeth sway ;
She could laugh and weep together, her heart joyed for her baby's birth,

870 Yet the ford of her bitter sorrow had drowned in short space her mirth.

BOOK III

GURNEMANZ

ARGUMENT

In the Introduction the poet speaks of the honour in which he holds all
true women, though he be wroth with one who has wronged him. Yet.
though women shall count him their friend, he would foin that they should
honour him for his knightly deeds, rather than for this his song.

In Book III. he tells of the sorrow and the faith of Queen Herzeleide ; of
ParzivaVs childhood ; of his meeting with the knights ; of his faring forth
to seek knighthood from King Arthur ; and of the death of Herseleide.
How Parzival met with Jeschut6, and robbed her of her token, and of the
wrath of her husband Orilus. Of the sorrow of Sigunö, and how Parzival
learnt his name and his lineage. How Parzival met with the ][led Knight
and bare his challenge to the court of King Arthur, and how he craved a
boon of the king. Of the shaming of Kunnewaar^ ; and of the dtfath
of the Red Knight. How Parzival came to Gumemans of Graharz and
was cured by him of his folly and taught all knightly wisdom, and how he
rode forth from the land of Graharz..

BOOK III
GURNEMANZ

S there ever a singer among you, who singeth a sweeter song
Of the favour and love of women, I hold not he does me

wrong I
Full fain am I still to hearken to aught that may give them

joy,

But to one alone among women my homage I still deny.

Nay, ever the fire of my anger doth kindle and flame anew, 5

And the sorrow her treason wrought me, it grieveth me still I trow !

I, whom men have named the singer, I, Wolfram of Eschenbach,

The words that against a woman I spake, I ma^ ne'er take back.

Nay, I hold fast my wrath for ever, and clasp it closer still,

As I think how in soul and body alike hath she wrought me ill i lo

How can I do aught but hate her, till death setteth seal on life ?

Yet it grieveth me sore that others should mingle in this our strife ;

It grieveth me sore that maidens should say, as they name my name,

' Forsooth he hath shamed all women, Det it be unto him for shame ! '

Nay, then, an they reckon for evil the words that in grief I spake, 15

1 will speak them no more for ever, though my heart should in silence break !

But let them beware in their anger, these warlike maidens fair.

How they stir from his eyrie the eagle, rouse the lion from his lair !

Full well I know how to defend me, full well know I what beseems

The maid of a knight's devotion, the maid of the poet's dreams 1 ao

Let a maiden be steadfast-hearted, pure and true in word and deed,

And her champion true she '11 find me, comes there ever an hour of need

I hold his renown waxeth slowly, and halteth upon the road,
Who^ for wrong at the hand of one woman, shall slander all womanhood :
VOL. L E

66 PARZIVAL

35 But if any will look upon me, and hearken to what I sing,

Of a sooth I will not deceive them, though my tale over-strange may ring.
Bom was I unto the bearing of knightly shield and spear,
And though sweet be the song of the singer, I hold it not all too dear :
I had rather my love should love me for my deeds of high renown,

30 Than because in the hall of the Wartburg they should crown me with music's
crown !
With the shield and the spear of knighthood will 1 seek for a knight's reward,
Nor charm, with the harp of the singer, what I failed to win with the sword !

Nor in praise of fair women only runs this tale that I have to tell.
Full many strange deeds it holdeth, and marvels that once befell

35 Ere the course of this wondrous venture be traced unto its end ;
Yet he who heareth shall reckon, if he fain would account me friend.
That this is no book he readeth, for no maker of books am I !
But a singer of strange adventures, and of knightly prowess high :
Stripped bare will I be of all honour, naked and reft of fame,

40 £re I trust my renown unto letters, and give to a book my name !

It vexes me, soul and body, that so many should bear the name
And speak with the tongue of women, who reck not of «woman's fame ;
That those who have known no falsehood, and those who are swift to fall.
Should carry one name in common, be counted as sisters all !
45 A truth that has faltered never, a faith that has aye withstood.
Is the only glory of woman, the crown of her womanhood !

MANY will say, * What good thing can come out of poverty ?'
She who for love endures it, she *scapeth Hell thereby,
And, in the kingdom of Heaven, receiveth a hundredfold

50 For all she has borne for love's sake, new joys for her sorrows old I
Not one have I known in my lifetime, I count it a bitter truth,
Neither a man nor a maiden, who the joy and the pride of youth,
And all earth's riches and honour, will leave as a worthless thing
If weighed with the glory of Heaven, and the service of Heaven's King !

55 But Queen Herzeleide only, she left her fair estate.

In her youth of all joy bereaved, with sorrow afar to mate.

So holy was she and gentle, so faithful and pure of mind.

That no tongue spake a word against her, and no eye a fault could find.

1

i

J

GURN£MANZ 67

Sunlight or shadow, what recked she ? the day was to her as night,

For her heart was the home of sorrow, and dead was the world's delight. 60

And in sorrow and grief she wandered, till she came to Soltan^'s strand,

A woodland wild and lonely afar from her native land :

Fair flowers might bloom and blossom without, on the sunlit plain,

And be woven in rosy chaplets, but for her they would bloom in vain !

And there, mid the woodland shadows, she hid with Gamuret's son, ^5

For she willed that her life's last treasure be revealM unto none :

So she called her folk around her, (who toiled in the upland field

With oxen and plough, that the furrows their daily bread might yield,)

And she charged them all, by the service which she as their queen might

claim,
That they hide from the boy his birthright and the fame of his father's name. 70
* For the knightly deeds ye vaunt of, and the glory and pride of war.
Have wrought me but heart's affliction, and trouble and anguish sore.
So, lest I yet more should suffer, I pray you, my servants dear,
That ye speak no word of knighthood, lest my son perchance should hear ! '

Then full sore were her people grieved, for they held it an evil thing, 75

And a training that ill beseemed the son of a mighty king.

But his mother kept him hidden in the woodland valleys wild,

Nor thought in her love and sorrow how she wronged the kingly child :

No knightly weapon she gave him, save such as in childish play

He wrought himself from the bushes that grew on his lonely way, 80

A bow and arrows he made him, and with these, in thoughtless glee.

He shot at the birds as they carolled overhead in the leafy tree.

But when the feathered songster of the woods at his feet lay dead,

In wonder and dumb amazement he bowed down his golden head,

And in childish wrath and sorrow tore the locks of his sunny hair ; 85

(For I wot well of all earth's children was never a child so fair

As this boy, who afar in the desert from the haunts of mankind did dwell.

Who bathed in the mountain streamlet, and roamed o'er the rock-strewn

fell!)
Then he thought him well how the music, which his hand had for ever stilled,
Had thrilled his soul with its sweetness, and his heart was with sorrow filled, 90
And the ready tears of childhood flowed forth from their fountains free
As he ran to his mother weeping, and bowed him beside her knee.

68 PARZIVAL

' What aileth thee child?' quoth the mother, 'but nowwast thou gay and glad' —
But, childlike, he gave no answer, scarce wist he what made him sad !

95 But Queen Heneleide watched him through the sunny summer days.
Till beneath a tree she saw him stand silent, with upturned gaze.
And a look of joyful rapture in the radiant childish eyes,
As he listed the bird, that, soaring, sang clear thro' the cloudless skies ;
And the mother's heart was troubled, and her wrath waxed to fever heat,

loo She would brook in his love no rival — not even God's singers sweet !
So she sent forth in haste her servants, with many a cunning snare
To capture the singers whose music made joyful the woodlands fair.
Then, alas ! for the birds, who struggled in the cruel snare in vain.
Yet some few burst their bonds, and joyful, brake forth into song again !

105 Then the boy spake, ' Now sweet my mother, why trouble the birds so sore ?
Forsooth they can ne'er have harmed thee, ah, leave them in peace once

more !'
And his mother kissed him gently, * Perchance I have wrought a wrong.
Of a truth, the dear God who made them. He gave unto them their song,
And I would not that one of his creatures should sorrow because of me.*

zio But the boy looked up in wonder, ^ God, Mother ? Who may God be ? '
* My son. He is light beyond all light, brighter than summer's day,
And He bare a Man's Face, that we men might look on His Face alway !
Art thou ever in need of succour? call on Him in thine hour of ill,
And be sure He will fail thee never, but will hear thee, and help thee still.

1x5 Yet one there is dwelleth in darkness, and I wot men may fear him well.
For his home is the house of falsehood, and his kingdom the realm of Hell !
Turn thy mind away from him ever, nor waver betwixt the twain,
For he who doubteth, his labour shall ever be wrought in vain.'

Thus his mother read him the nddle, the myst'ry of day and night,
120 The dread and the doom of darkness, and the glory and grace of light !
Then javelin in hand he hastened thro' the forest pathways wild,
And the deer sprang up from their thickets, and fled from the dauntless child ;
But clear-eyed and eager-footed he hastened upon their track.
And full oft with a hornM trophy, at even he hied him back.-
125 Little cared he for rain or sunshine, summer's storm or winter's snow,
And daily in strength and beauty all men might behold him grow :

GURNEMANZ 69

Till at length no beast so mighty thro* the forest wild did roam,
If it fell 'neath his shaft, unaided, on his shoulder he bore it home !

It cHanced thro' a woodland thicket one mom as he took his way,

And brake from o'erhangin'g bushes full many a leafy spray, 130

That a pathway steep and winding rose sharply his track anear,

And the distant beat of horse-hoofs fell strange on his wondering ear.

Then the boy grasped his javelin firmly and thought what the sound might be ;

' Perchance 'tis the devil cometh ! Well, I care not if it be he !

Methinks I can still withstand him, be he never so fierce and grim, '35

Of a truth my lady mother she is o'er-much afraid of kim \

As he stood there for combat ready, behold, in the morning light.

Three knights rode into the clearing, in glittering armour bright ;

From head to foot were they arniM, each one on his gallant steed,

And the lad as he saw their glory thought each one a god indeed ! 140

No longer he stood defiant, but knelt low upon his knee.

And cried, ' God, Who helpest all men, I pray Thee have thought for me ! '

Then wroth was the foremost rider as the lad barred his further way,

And he spake out, 'This stupid Walds will hinder our work to-day I '

(Now here would I give to the Waleis the fame we Bavarians hold ; '45

They are duller than e'en our people, yet manly in strife and bold.

And in sooth were one bom in both countries sych marvel of strength and

skill
Would he hide in himself that I think me their fame he might well fulfil !)

Then there rode swift with hanging bridle, in costly hamess dight,

With plumed and jewelled helmet another gallant knight ; 150

Swiftly he came as thirsting to challenge in mortal fight

The foe who sped far before him, who had done him a sore despite ;

For two knights from out his kingdom a maiden had borne away,

And he held it a deed most shameful and one he must needs repay ;

For the maiden's sorrow grieved him, and fain would he ease her pain : '55

(And the three knights who rode before him were part of his warlike train.)

He rode a Spanish war-horse, and his shield had fierce conflict seen,

And Kamachkaraanz did they call him (he was Ulterleg's count I ween).

70 PARZIVAL

Then he cried to his knights, 'Why loiter? who barreth our onward way?'
i6o And straight on the lad did be ride there, who deemed him a god alway,
For ne'er had he seen such glory ; his harness shone fair with dew,
And on either foot the stirrups with golden bells rang true.
And their length was e'en as fitting, and with bells did each strong arm ring,
As he stirred himself, or his sword-blade in battle aloft would swing.
1^5 And the hero was swift in seeking the guerdon of knightly prize,

So he rode here, the prince, and had decked him in a fair and wondrous wise.

Then spake this flower of all knighthood, ' Say, boy, did they pass thy way ?
Two knights who have shamed their knighthood, nay, robbers I ween are

they.
For they bear a maiden with them, and she rideth against her will ! '
170 Yet the boy, tho' he spake with a man's tongue, as a god must account him
still ;
For he thought how Queen Herzeleide had told him that God was Light
And dwelleth in Light for ever ; and so to his dazzled sight
This knight, in his shining armour in the glow of the summer's day.
Was the God of his mother's lesson, and he knelt him again to pray.

175 But the prince he spake full gently, 'Fain am I to do God's will.
And yet for no God I hold me, but a sinful mortal stilL
Nay, wert tfaou more clear of vision, thou wouldst see, an thou sawest aright,
No Lord of the host of Heaven, but only a humble knight ! '

^ Knight ?' quoth the boy in answer, ' Nay! I wot not what that may be,
180 Is thy strength not of God, but of knighthood, then I would such were given
to me ! '
* Then wend thy way to King Arthur, an thou earnest unto his court,
A noble knight he would make thee, ashamed and afeared for naught.
For sure, now I look upon thee, thou com'st of a noble strain.'
Then his knights they turned their bridles, and gazed at the boy again.
<^5 Full well might they look and wonder, at t)ie work that God's Hand had
wrought,
For they say, who tell this story, that never could human thought
Have dreamed of aught so goodly, since ever the world began.
For of all men beloved by women, was there never so fair a man !

GURNEMANZ 71

Lottd tliey laughed as the boy spake further, ' Good knight, what may these

be?
These rings that so close around thee, above and below I see.' 190

Then he handled, with curious finger, the armour the knight did bear,
His coat of mail close-linkM as behoved a knight to wear ;
And he spake as he looked on the harness, ' My mother's maidens string
On their chains, and around their fingers, full many a shining ring,
But they cling not so close to each other as these rings that here I see, 195

I cannot force them asunder, what good are they then to thee ? '

Then the prince drew forth from its scabbard his shining blade so keen,
' Now see, he who fights against me, must withstand my sword I ween.
And lest he, on his part, should slay me, it is fit that with mail and shield,
I ward me against his spear-thrusts, and the blows that his arm may wield.* aoo
SwifUy the lad made answer, ' Little good would it do the deer
An their coats were e'en such as thine is, they would fall still beneath my
spear.'

Full wroth were the knights and scornful that their lord thus long had

Ulked
With this lad with the face of an angel, and the speech as of one distraught ;
Then the prince he spake full gently, ' God keep thee in His good grace, 205
I would that my shield's bright mirror might show me as fair a face 1
Nay, an the Giver of all gifts but gave thee wit enow
To match with a mien so goodly, full rich wert thou then I trow 1
May He keep all sorrow from thee, and thy life be a summer's day — '
And with that he turned his bridle, and wended once more his way. no

Then adown the woodland pathway they rode, till they came full soon
Where the carles of Queen Herzeleide toiled hard thro' the sultry noon :
The fields must they plough and harrow, if a harvest they hoped to reap,
So they goaded the patient oxen to their toil on the hillside steep.

Then the prince he gave them ' Good-morrow,', and asked if there passed 815

that way
A maiden in need and sorrow ? and they dared not to say him nay ;
But they answered him e'en as he prayed them, and they spake ' Yea, at

early mom
Two knights and a maiden passed here, and the maiden, she wept forlorn.

72 PARZIVAL

And the knights as they rode beside her, spurred ever her flying steed.'
320 Then the prince knew his foe, Meliakanz, and his wrath waxed hot indeed,
On his tracks he followed swiftly, and they who this venture tell,
Say he won back in fight the maiden ere the shadows of evening fell.

But sore were the queen's folk troubled that the heroes had chanced that

way,
And they spake, ' God forbid that our queen's son fall in with these knights
to-day !

835 An he chances to light upon tbem in the pride of their warlike gear,
It will anger full sore our mistress if by hap she the tale should hear :
And ill-luck will it bring upon us that, ere ever the dawn of day.
With us while his mother slumbered, to the woods he stole away ! '
Little recked the boy of their trouble as he chased the flying deer,

^30 And shouted in youthful gladness, as they fell before his spear

Then homeward he sped to his mother, but ere he his tale might tell
She was smitten with deadly terror, and low at his feet she fell.

Then soon as Queen Herzeleide found hearing and speech once more
Her boy was she fain to question tho' her heart it misgave her sore ;
^35 * Who spake to thee, son, of knighthood ? What knowest thou of such-like

rede?*
' I met in the woods, sweet mother, four men I deemed gods indeed.
So light were they all and shining, God Himself ne'er could brighter be,
And of knighthood they spake and King Arthur, who might well make a

knight of me ! *
Then her sorrow of old-time ' wakened, and the queen in her heart she

sought
940 For some cunning wile of woman, that her boy from his will be brought. •

When the simple lad and gallant would crave from her hand a steed,
Tho' heavy her heart, she bethought her in naught to gainsay his need,
' Yet not as he asks will I give him, no mother's gifts be mine,
But ever the worst and the meanest that my skill may aye divine.'
«45 And she thought her, Queen Herzeleide, * Many folk thro' the world shall fare
Who love mocking — On his fair body my son shall a Fool's dress wear.
Then sure when the mockers see him, and to scoff at his garb are fain.
An he at their hands be smitten, then he cometh to me again ! '

GURNEMANZ 73

Alas ! for a woman's oinning, and the craelty of mother's love,

She chose from her stores a sackcloth, the coarsest that might be wove, 350

And a garment of this she made him that should reach e'en unto his knee ;

For his sunny hair such covering as on fools men are wont to see ;

And instead of hose she bound him on his limbs so strong and fair

Leggings of undressed calf-skin — ^And all wept who beheld him there.

Then his mother with forethought bade him to tarry till morning light, 255

' Nor from hence would I have thee journey till my rede thou hast heard

aright —
' Keep thou ever from paths untrodden and ford not the darkling streamy
Where the wcUersflow clear and limpid^ there safe is the ford I ween.
And be ever fair and courteous^ greet all men who pass thy way.
If a wise man old and grey-headed would teach thee, as well he may^ 260

All courteous ways and fittings as his word so shall be thy deed.
Nor wax wroth if by whiles he chide thee, but give to my words good heed.
And one things my son^ would I tell thee, canst thou win from a maid her

ring
And her greeting fair, thou shall take them^ and sorrow hath lost her sting!
If a kiss from her lips she will give thee, and thine arms shall the maid enfold, 265
Beshepureandtrue thou art blessed, and thy strength shall wax highandboldV

' And hearken my son, a proud knight, Lahelein, do men call his name.
From thy princes two lands hath wrested, else from them couldst thou

tribute claim.
And Waleis they are and Norgals — and one of thy princes brave,
Turkentals, hath he slain, and thy people he hath smitten and doth enslave.- 270
' For such wrong will I vengeance, mother, if vengeance be here God's will.
Be he never so strong with my javelin I think me to wound him still.'

Then e'en at the daylight's dawning the boy would no longer stay,

For the thought of King Arthur's glory yet heavy upon him lay.

Then Queen Herzeleide kissed him, and she sped swift his steed behind, a75

And the sorrow of sorrows smote her when her boy she no more might

find.
(Hence he rode and what heart rejoiceth ?) Then the queen from all false-
hood free,
Fell low on the earth, and grief tare her till death must her portion be !

74 PARZIVAL

Yet I wot that her death so faithful it hath saved her from pains of Hell|
ato And to be of such son the mother, it repayeth all anguish well 1

Thus she, the root of all goodness whence humility's flower migl^t blow,
Herself on a pilgrimage wended that a goodly goal should know.
Woe worth us ! that none of their children should live still, to hand us down
In these days when we look on falsehood their honour and fair renown.
^5 And therefore shall faithful women wish well to this lad so bold.
Who rSdeth fair ventures seeking, whose journey ye now behold !

Then the gallant lad rode onward on his way toward Briziljan's wood,

And he came to a rippling streamlet, and a cock well might wade that flood !

And flowers in the grass were blooming, yet so darkling ran the wave
990 That the lad he thought not to ford it ; but as wit the counsel gave.

So he followed its course thro* the daylight, and he passed as he could the
night,

Till he saw once more the morning, and he came to a fair ford bright.

On the further side was a meadow, and a tent decked the grass so green,

And tall was the tent wide-spreading, and riches thereon were seen ;
995 Twas of samite of threefold colours, on the seams lay fair ribbons wide.

And a leathern covering hung there, 'gainst the rain-cloud to guard its pride.

CTwas Duke Orilus of Laland^, whose wife he beneath it found—
She lay there in peaceful slumber with riches happed fair around,
A Duchess she was, well worthy the love of a gallant knight,
300 And the venture it tells that Jeschut^ was the name of that lady bright)

Softly the princess slumbered, — yet weapons of love she bore ;
A mouth so red and glowing, that a knight's heart had wounded sore.
And e'en as she slept they parted asunder, her lips so bright.
That the fire of love had kindled, (fit venture for gallant knight)
305 And even as ivory snow-white, and little, and close the row

Of the teeth that gleamed white betwixt them — methinks that a man were

slow
To use himself to such kisses from a mouth that all men might praise—
I wot that so fair a guerdon but seldom hath crowned my days !

A covering of richest sable over foot and knee was thrown,
310 (For the heat she aside hath cast it, whom her lord had thus left alone)

GURNEMANZ 75

And her fonn it was fairly fashioned, and wrought by a skilful hand,
Since 'twas God Himself in His wisdom who so fair a work had planned.
And long was her arm and rounded : on her snow-white hand a ring
Gleamed golden, and when he saw it the lad to her side did spring ;
For had not his mother told him such jewels were the guerdon fair 3x5

That a knight well might crave ? and he thought him he fain would such token
bear!

Then the lady awoke in terror as his clasp on her white arm fell,

And gazed in startled wonder and wrath as beseemed her well ;

' Who is it, who thus would shame me ? Nay, sir, thou art all too free 1

Go, choose thee some fairer maiden, my favours are not for thee ! ' 3^

In vain might she weep and bewail her ; he asked not her yea, or nay,
But took from her lips unwilling the kiss she would fain gainsay ;
And the ring of gold from her finger with ungentle hand held take,
And the clasp that her shift had fastened from the garment he roughly brake :
In vain were her tears and struggles, she was but a woman still, 3^5

And his strength was to hers as an army, perforce must she do his will.
Then the lad spake aloud, he hungered, from his hand was the lady free,
And she quoth, * Of a truth 'twere better thou shouldst not make meal of me !
If thou wert but a little wiser thou wouldst choose thee some other meat.
There stand bread and wine, and two game-birds, of them maystthou freely 33^

eat,
Methinks when my maiden brought them, 'twas scarcely of thee she thought ! '
Then he asked not where sat the hostess, but he ate e'en as hunger taught.
And he drank his fill ; and the lady she deemed all too long his >tay,
For she thought him bereft of his senses, and she wished he were well away.
And for fear and shame the sweat-drops stood thickly upon her brow — 335
And she spake, * Thou my ring shalt give me, and the clasp thou didst take

but now,
And get thee away, if he cometb, my husband, then shalt thou bear
The weight of his wrath, and I think me thou wouldst then wish thyself

elsewhere ! '

Quoth the noble youth, ' What care I how fierce thy lord's wrath may be ?
If my presence doth shame thine honour, then from hence will I swiftly 340
flee.'

76 PARZIVAL

And he stepped to the bedside boldly, and kissed her as there she lay,
Tho* little it pleased the Duchess, and without leave he rode away ;
And he spake a word of parting as he vaulted upon his steed,

* God have thee in His safe keeping, so my mother she gave me rede.'

345 Then the lad he was glad of his booty, and thus did he ride a while—*
Methinks there was little lacking that from hence he had gone a mile,
Ere he came of whom I would tell you : on the dew he the tracks might

see
Of one who had sought his lady — The tent-ropes displaced should be
Where the lad thro* the grass had ridden ; then the gallant Duke and proud

350 Found his lady within in sorrow, and Orilus spake aloud,

' Alas ! for the service done thee — ^for smitten and put to shame
Is the crown of my knightly honour, since another thy love can claim ! *
Then little, alas ! might it profit that with streaming eyes she swore
No lover had she save her husband, — ^he would hearken her tale no more.

355 Then she spake in her fear and anguish, '*Twas R/oo/y he who came to me.
And yet tho' a fool, of all men I wot he may fairest be !
My ring and my clasp gold-gleaming, he took them against my will ! '

* Nay, I doubt not so well he pleased thee, thou didst grant him more favours

stai,'
' Now, God forbid ! for his fool's garb and his javelin were e'en too near,
3^ It shameth us both, my husband, such words from thy lips to hear !

Are gtaens wont to love thus lowly, that thou speakest such words of me ?
Thou wrongest our royal breeding, when thou deemest such things may be ! '

Then the Duke spake, ' This shame, O lady ! alone hast thou won from me,
Thou dost call ihys^Xf Queen no longer ; tho' thy title shall Duchess be

365 Little good hath that bargain brought me — So bold shall my manhood be,
That thy brother, King Lads son Erec, for that cause beareth hate to

thee:
He is wise, and right well he knoweth that my fame so high shall stand
That nothing shall stain mine hondur, save at Prurein when his right hand
In knightly joust once felled me, but that have I paid right well,

370 In a joust at Kamant I smote him, and behind his steed he fell.

And his pledge did he yield unto me,— thro' his shield I thy token bare,
I thought not, my wife Jeschut^, with another thy love to share ! '

;»

GURNEMANZ 77

* Thou mayst also well assure thee that the son of King Gandein,

Proud Galoes, once lay lifeless before this arm of mine ;

And thott thyself wast witness when the Knight Plihopleheri 375

Rode swift in a joust against me, nor his strife it hath passed me by,
My spear from the saddle thrust him that his charger he sat no more ;
Yea, great was the fame that I won me by my prowess in days of yore,
Many knights have I borne from their chargers, — ^yet it profiteth not I ween.
Nor outweigheth the bitter shaming that thro' thee hath my portion been !' 380

And with reason good do they hate me, those knights of the Table

Round,
Since eight of their bravest champions have 1 borne unto the ground.
And many fair maidens saw it, when at Kanedig fierce we fought
For the hawk ; there was I the victor, and my hand fame to thee hath brought
And that didst thou see with King Arthur — At his court doth she dwell 3^5

to-day.
My sister, sweet Kunnewaar^, and grave is her mien alway,
For her lips may not move to laughter till the day that her eyes shall light
On him who of all shall be reckoned the fairest and bravest knight
Would he come unto me, that hero ! Ah ! then should a strife be seen
As to-day in the early morning already my lot hath been. 390

I have fought, and a prince hath suffered, for joust he toward me sped,
But my spear-point so sorely smote him that he lay there before me, dead ! '

* Well I know that in righteous anger for a lesser sin than thine

Full many had slain the sinner, but I would not such deed were mine !

For the service of knightly honour that to thee I had offered fitir, 395

Henceforth shalt thou know but lacking; nor thy need do I think to

spare —
No more with thy white arms circled in love and in peace I '11 lie,
Those golden days of love's glory have £aded and passed us by,
But pale be thy mouth so rosy, and tear-dinimed thy shining eyes,
For joy shall be put far from thee, and thy heart's songs be turned to sighs ! ' 400

Then sadly she looked upon him, that princess so fair and true,

' May it be for the honour of knighthood what seemeth thee best to do,

Wise art thou indeed and loyal, and I in thy power may be.

And I know well that heavy sorrow and pain thou canst bring on me :

I

78 PARZIVAL

405 To the ordeal, I prithee, pat me, and do this for all women's sake,
Thereafter, an I be guilty, for my sin do thou vengeance take !
If another's hand shall slay me, (for thee were such deed un-meet)
Then gladly I'll die — Dost thou scorn me? then welcome is death, and
sweet ! '

Then he broke out in bitter anger, ' If thy pride be still so great,
410 It is meet I should meekness teach thee, tho' the lesson be all too late— m,

No more shall we be companions, together no more we '11 eat ;

Be our marriage couch forgotten and the hours of communion sweet.

This garment in which I found thee thy only robe shall be,

And instead of jewelled bridle hempen'^twist will I give to thee ;
415 Thy steed be the guest of hunger, and thy saddle once decked so fair

Shall be robbed of its goodly trappings ! ' and with hasty hand he tare

The samite adown, and he brake it, the saddle she rode erewhile,

(Nor her gentle ways and seemly might his angry wrath beguile)

With a hempen cord he bound it — ^Too soon had she won his hate !
420 As he did this he spake, ' Now Lady, 'tis best we no longer wait, ^

Could I reach him who shared thy fovours, then fulfilled were my heart's
desire.

The venture I Id face, though as dragon he were breathing forth flames
and fire!'

Then with weeping instead of laughter she passed from out the tent

That lady so rich in sorrow, and sadly her way she went ;
435 Yet more than she mourned her shaming she wept her lord's grief, I ween,

His sorrow so sorely moved her, e'en death would have lighter been.

Now of true heart shall ye bemoan her who thus did sore anguish know,

And tho' hatred I won from all women, still I 'Id mourn for Jeschutd's woe 1

So rode they upon the traces of the lad who before them fled,
430 And, dauntless, he little thought him how a foeman behind him sped.
But whoever his eyes might light on, as his pathway they drew anear.
He gave to him kindly greeting, ' Thus bade me my mother dear ! '

Thus rode he, our lad so fooUsh, adown a mountain side,
When a woman's voice before him from amid the rocks loud cried ;
435 'Twas a cry of heartfelt sorrow, for her joy was in ruins laid — m

Then swift rode the lad towards her, — Now hear what she did, this maid :

GURNEMANZ 79

She tore, the maid Sigun^, her plaits of long brown hair

From ottt her head thro' sorrow ; and the lad he beheld her there,

And he saw Schionatulander, the prince, on her knee lie dead,

And the maiden she wailed above him, and her joy had for ever fled. 440

(' If sad be their mien or joyful, my mother she bade me still

Greet all men, whoe'er might meet me) God keep thee fiom greater ill,

For in sooth a sorry treasure have I found on thy knee to-day !

Who hath wounded this knight ? ' (For an answer the lad he would press

alway)
' Did one with a javelin slay him ? For Lady, he sure is dead ; 445

Wilt thou tell me naught ? Who hath slain him ? If he none too far hath

fled
Methinks I might overtake him, for gladly with him I 'Id fight ! '

Then the lad he laid hold on his quiver wherein lay the javelins bright,

And still in his hand tight clasped, the tokens twain he bore

Which he in his thoughtless folly erewhile from Jeschut^ tore. 45^

Had he known the courtly customs with his father's life in-bound,

His shield were better smitten when the duchess alone he found

Who thro' him must suffer sorrow — for more than a whole year long,

Her husband withheld his favour, tho' in sooth did he do her wrong.

Now list to this maid Sigun^ who her grief would bemoan as meet, 455

She spake to the lad, ' Thou art courteous, all hail ! to thy youth so sweet,

And thy face so fair ; yea blessed thy lot shall hereafter be !

No javelin pierced this hero, but slain in a joust was he —

From truth wast thou bom who truly for another's woe can grieve ! '

Then his name she was fain to hearken, ere the lad her side might leave, 4^

And she spake, God with skill had wrought him — But his answer was naught

but this,
•At home all who know me call me ^Bonfils^ Cherfilsy Beau fits I '

Ere ever the word was spoken, the maiden she knew his name —

Now hearken aright his title, that hereafter ye own his fame

Who is hero of this my venture, who now standeth the maid beside — 465

And her red lips they spake unfaltering, ' Thou art ParzivcU^ she cried,

And thy name it shall mean ' to pierce thrt^i for thy mother's faithful heart

With furrow of grief was riven when she from her lord must part :

8o PARZIVAL

And I speak not that those shooldst vaunt thee ; thy mother my aunt shall be,
470 And in truth, with no guile of falsehood, thy race will I tell to thee ! '

* An Angevin was thy father, thy mother of fiiir Waleis,

And I know for a truth thy birthplace was the city of Kanvoleis ;

And thou art the King of Norgals, and there in the citadel

As king shalt thou bear the sceptre and crown as beseems thee well.

475 For thy sake was he slain, this hero, who thy kingdom for thee would guard,
His truth it hath faltered never, tho' in death did he find reward.
Two brothers have wrought thee evil, two kingdoms from thee have reft,
And Orilus this thy kinsman m a joust hath lifeless left
And me too hath he left in sorrow—He served me nor thought it shame,

480 This prince of thy land, where my childhood did thy mother's tending claim.
Now fair and sweet my cousin wouldst thou hear how he met his end ?
Twas the fair wove leash of a brächet that brought sorrow unto my friend —
He hath served us twain, in our service hath he won him but death alone,
And I, I have won but sorrow, and henceforth for his death make moan,

485 For scant of wit was I surely, .that I gave not my love afore—

So God hath my gladness shattered, and the dead 1 love evermore ! '

Then he spake, ' I must mourn, O cousin, thy grief^ and my bitter wrong,
Of a truth till I may avenge them the time seemeth over-long I '
Then straight would he ride to battle, but the way did she falsely show,
490 For she feared were he slain then henceforward yet sorer should wax her woe.
But a road he found that led him straightway to the Breton's land.
And smooth and wide was that highway — An there met him on either hand
Afoot or ahorse a merchant or knight, he would greet them still.
For so was his mother's counsel ; and she spake with no thought of ill.

495 But great weariness overtook him, as darkened the eventide.

And a house that was none too stately the youth in his folly spied.

Twas a churl he who sat within it, discourteous by birth and low,

(A fisherman he, little kindness might one at his hand e'er know)

Then the lad drew rein for he hungered, and craved of him drink and meat.

500 But the host quoth, ' Nay, not a halMoaf shalt thou have at mine hand to
eat
In thirty years ; he who waiteth, in the gifts of mine hand to share,
O'er-long shall delay his journey— For none but myself I care,

I

GURNEMANZ 8i

Thereafter perchance for my children — ^Thou comest not here to-day»
Hadst thon money or pledge 'twere other, then thine host would I be 5^5
straightway ! '

Then Jeschut^s clasp all golden the lad he would bid him take,

And soon as the peasant saw it, with smiling mouth he spake,

' Wilt thou stay here, sweet lad ? then due honour be thy portion from all

within — *
* Wilt thou feed me to-night and to-morrow wilt help me the way to win
To King Arthur (for well I love him) then thyself mayst keep the gold ! ' s^o
' Yea, that will I do>' quoth the peasant, *for ne*er might mine eyes behold
A face and form so comely — I will thee, as a marvel, bring
To the court, and the good Round Table, and the face of the noble king 1 '

So the lad thro* the night abode there, and ere ever the dawn of day

He roused himself full eager to get on his onward way, s^S

And the fisher, he made him ready, and before the lad he ran.

And the boy he rode behind him, and swift were both steed and man.

(Herr Hartmann von Aue, and thy lady, the queenly Guinevere,

And tby gallant lord« King Arthur, a guest do I bring ye here ;

No tool is he for your mocking, nay, never a harp or lute, 5^

Ye shall choose ye some other plaything, such as courtesy well doth suit ;

Else will I thy lady Enid, and her mother Kamafite

Pass under the mill, and their honour with bitter scorn 1 11 smite —

Tho' I tune my song to mocking, and thy lips with mockery seal.

Yet here will I guard my hero lest thy scorn he perchance should feel !) 535

When the lad with his guide so humble to the city walls drew near,

And Nantes might be well discemM in the morning light so clear,

' God keep thee, boy,' said the fisher, ' thou seest where thou must ride *

Quoth the lad yet scant in knowledge, ' Yet nearer must thou be guide ! '

' Nay, nay, so proud as these court-folk, such folly be far from me, 530

An' a peasant came nigh' unto them, his welcome would sorry be ! '

So alone the lad rode onward o'er a plain that was none too wide,
And the flowers stood fair around him and blossomed on every side,
VOL. I. . F

82 PARZIVAL

No Kurwenal was his teacher and of courtesy knew he naught —
535 They know it not, the untravelled, till the world hath wisdom taught —

Of hempen twist his bridle, and feeble and faint his steed,

And oft it fell, as stumbling it went o'er the flowery mead.

And nowhere upon his saddle fair leather and new was seen ;

And of samite fair and ermine fiill great his lack had been.
540 No mantle clasp he needed, nor knightly garb he wore,

Of blazoned coat or surcoat ; his javelin alone he bore.

He whose deeds were praised of all men, his father so brave and wise,

Was robed in far other fashion on the carpet 'fore Kanvoleis !

He who ne'er felt the sweat of terror, to him did a knight draw near ;
545 Then he greeted him, ' May God keep thee ! thus bade me my mother

dear.'
'God reward thee, lad, and thy mother,' swift answer the knight would

bring,
(Uther Pendragon reared him, he was cousin unto the king,
And unto the land of Bretagne did the self-same knight lay claim)
He was Ither of Gaheviess, * The Red Knight ' they called his name.

550 All dazzling red was his armour, the eye from its glow gleamed red ;

Red was his horse svrift-footed, and the plumes that should deck its head,

Of samite red its covering ; redder than flame his shield ;

Fair-fashioned and red his surcoat; and the spear that his hand would

wield
Was red, yea, the shaft and the iron ; and red at the knight's desire
555 Was his sword, yet the blade's fair keenness was not dimmed by the raging

fire.
And the King of Cumberland, stately, in his mailed hand did hold
A goblet, with skill engraven, and wrought of the good red gold —
From the Table Round had he reft it — All red was his shining hair
Yet white was his skin, and kindly his speech to the lad and fair.

560 'Now hail to thy fair young body, that in sooth a true womati bare.
Yea, blessed is she thy mother ! Ne'er saw I a face so fair,
And the light of thine eyes, I think me, is kindled by love alone,
And Love shall in thee be victor, as by thee Love is overthrown !

1

GURNEMANZ 83

And in thee is the joy ci woman, whose bliss finds in thee its goal,

And for thee shall the load of sorrow weigh heavy upon the soul — 5^5

Now do me this grace I pray thee, an thou wend thee unto the town

Bear greeting from me to King Arthur, and his heroes of high renown,

And say that no fleeting vision am I who now speak with thee,

But here I abide, and await him who thinketh to joust with me I '

^ And never a man will wonder : to the Table Round I came 570

And there, in the heroes' presence to my kingdom would I lay claim,

And with hasty hand I raised it, this cup, and the wine out-poured

The robes of the queen besprinkled, as she sat there beside her lord.

This I did as the custom olden of one who would claim his right

For better I thought the wine-cup, than the straw-wisp all alight, 575

For its smoke perchance had soiled me, thus I chose it not' spake the king,

' Nor for robbery rode I hither, my crown doth forbid such thing —

Say thou to the queen that the wine-drops, they fell on her 'gainst my will

Where those heroes sit, nor remember, nor their knighthood as meet

fulfil
Whether lungs they shall be or princes o'er-long doth he thirst their king ! 5^
This cup, why delay to fetch it ? Their fame it hath taken wing ! '

Then the lad spake, ' I'll bear thy message, yea, e'en as thou biddest me.'

And then unto Nantes fair city he gat him right speedily»

And many a youth they followed to the court of the palace fair.

And 'twas filled with a motley gathering, and they thronged him and pressed 585

him there.
Then Iwanet sprang from out them, and this youth from falsehood free
He gave him a kindly greeting, and he proffered him company.
And the lad he quoth, ' God keep thee, (so my mother she bade me speak
Ere yet from home 1 wended) King Arthur I fain would seek
But here see I full many an Arthur I Who of all these shall make me knight ? ' 590
Then Iwanet laughed loud ' I will show thee, not yet hast thou seen the

right!'

To the Table Round he led him where sat the heroes all

And as best he could for the tumult cried the lad thro' the lofty hall,

*God keep ye all ye heroes ! I greet ye both queen and king,

For thus did my mother bid me fair greeting to ye to bring. 595

84 PARZIVAL

ä

And all who have won by their valour at the Table Round a seal
Ye gallant knights and heroes, ye too did she bid me greet !
But in one thing my skill doth fail me, who is host here I may not know ;
To him do I bear a message from a knight who all red doth glow,
600 He waiteth without the portal (methinks he is fain to fight)

That he spilt o'er the queen the wine-cup that sorely doth grieve the knight—

Ah 1 if I his gear so goodly from the king's hand as gift might take,

In sooth were I rich in gladness — so knightly and fair its make ! ' ^

Thus spake the youth gay and careless, and the courtiers they thronged
around
605 And hither and thither pressed him till scarce might he stand his ground :
And well did they look upon him, for each for himself might see
That never in man or maiden might the fruit of love fairer be.
And in truth it was no ill working that in Parzival God had wrought.
In whom never a sight of terror had wakened of fear a thought.

610 Thus they brought him before King Arthur, he whom God for a wonder chose, ft!
And no man might bear him hatred — Then the queen from her seat arose
And she gazed for a space upon him ere she passed from out the hall
Where the wine from the golden goblet perforce on her robes must fall.
Then Arthur he looked upon him — To the simple youth he spake,

615 * Now lad to thy kindly greeting a kindly answer take,

For this would I do thee service, yea with body alike and land ;
This I speak of a true heart truly, so my will doth toward ihee stand ! '

' Would to God that were true ! Now I think me it well-nigh a year shall be
That I fain would be knight, lacking knighthood all else seemeth ill to me !

620 Now make thou no more delaying, be knighthood my lot straightway.' |^

Quoth the king, ' I were fain to do so if worth fail me not alway.
So noble art thou to look on ; and goodly gifts and rare
Would I give thee ; to do thee service I'll naught of my treasure spare.
Yea, loath had I been to refuse thee, wait but for to-morrow's light,

695 And I myself will dower thee with all that befits a knight.'

The lad like a bird new cag^d, he shook himself to and fro,
And he quoth, ' For naught do I ask thee 1 But that knight who as fire doth m
glow

GURNEMANZ 8$

If thou givest me not his armour no gift will I take from thee.
My mother will not withhold it— For a queen shall she surely be.'

Then Arthur he quoth, ' That armour so gallant a knight doth wear 630

That to give thee a gift so goodly methinks I may hardly dare.
And guiltless 1 live in sorrow since his homage 1 must forego,
^ Ither he is of Gaheviess ; thro' my joy hath he wrought me woe.'

' Now my King sure it were ungracious to say to his pleading nay.
Thou shalt give him what he desireth, nor think it too great»' quoth Kay, 635
* Let him forth to the plain ; bid him bring thee the cup if it be thy will I
Here hast thou the whip, there the top is, let the child have of sport his

fill
The women, forsooth, will praise him, and it seemeth good to me
He should learn to take blows an he gives them, many such will his portion

be.
For the life of the twain what care I ? Each of us needs must have his day, 640
If thy dogs for the spoil shall hunger, thou must e'en give thy dogs their

way.'
' I 'were loath to refuse his pleading, yet I feared lest he here be slain,
And to knighthood I fain had helped him.' Thus Arthur he spake again.

Thus the lad won the gift he craved for, which many perforce must rue,

And young and old they followed, as forth from the hall he flew. 645

By the hand would Iwanet lead him, 'fore a bower that was none too high,

And backward and forward turning the lad gazed with eager eye.

And the bower was so low that within it the lad he both heard and saw.

And therefrom did he win a sorrow that vexed him with torment sore.

31

The queen from her bower window to look on the sight was fain, ' 650

And her knights and maidens round her they gazed and they gazed again.

And the maiden Kunnewaar^ she sat there, the fair and proud,

And never, that man might wot of, had she laughed or low or loud.

For never she vowed, an she died first, would she laugh ere her eyes might

see
That knight, who of knights the bravest or was, or henceforth should be. 655
As the lad rode beneath the window she brake into laughter sweet.
And her back was sore from the guerdon — reward for a maid unmeet I

86 PARZIVAL

For Kay the Seneschal seized her, the maiden of fair Lalande,
By her waving hair, and the tresses he wound fast around his hand,
660 Without a band he bound her — Tho' never an oath she sware
His staff he laid unknightly on her maiden shoulders fair,
And ere ever the sound of the smiting on the ear had died away
Thro' white skin and royal raiment had he wounded the maid that day.

And thus did he speak in his folly, ' Now hast thou thine own fair fame
665 Cast aside, and I wot thou hast done it to thine own mending shame !
Now see, e'en in flight have I caught it, and I bring it to thee once more
In such wise thou mayst well remember, and be e'en in the memory sore :
For I wot well unto King Arthur, to his court and his palace hall
Many gallant men have ridden, yet hast thou despised them all,
670 And ne 'er hast thou smiled upon them — And now doth thy laughter ring
For one knowing naught of knighthood ! Unseemly I deem this thing ! '

Now whate'er might be done in anger I wot well no king's decree
Had bid him thus smite the maiden ; and her friends mourned her bitterly.
(Might she bear knightly shield and armour it had helped not this sore
disgrace,
675 Discourteous the blows were smitten.) She came of a royal race,
Had her gallant brothers seen it, Lähelein and Orilus
Far fewer blows had fallen ; she ne'er had been smitten thus.

Now Sir Antanor the Silent, who thro* silence a fool was thought,

(His speech and the maiden's laughter on a self-same thread were wrought)

680 For never a word would he utter till she laughed whom Kay thus did smite.
As clear rang the maiden's laughter, aloud spake the silent knight,
^ Now here before God I tell thee, Kunnewaard of feir Lalande
Thou hast wronged for that lad, and thy guerdon awaiteth thee at his hand.
Nor so weak shall he be, nor so foolish, but he tumeth thy bliss to bale 1'

685 ^ And thy speech thou hast found but to threaten for joy shall it naught
avail.'
His food would he make full bitter. — Kay smote him upon the ear
With his fist till naught but a singing and a whispering might he hear.
And Parzival saw the sorrow of the maiden and Antanor,
And his heart was hot for their shaming, and grief for their sake he bore,

GURNEMANZ 87

And he grasped his javelin tightly, bat the throng pressed so dose around 690
That perforce the dart must he lower, lest some other aim it found.

Thus alone from the court of King Arthur rode the son of Gamuret,
And he came to the plain where the Red Knight his foeman awaited yet ;
And he bare unto him the tidings how in Nantes was there never a knight
Whose heart yet yearned for jousting, or who lusted with him to fight. 695

* But a gift King Arthur gave me — I spake as thou saidst before,
That without thy will had it chanced thee the wine o'er the queen to pour,
Thy discourtesy sorely vexed thee — ^They think not to fight with thee.
Now give me the steed thou ridest, and thine harness give thou to me,
They were given me in the palace, therein shall I be a knight, 700

Wouldst withhold them, I will not greet thee— Yield thou what is mine of
right 1 '

Then the King of Cumberland answered, ' If Arthur hath given to thee
Mine armour, my It/e he gave theet if that life thou canst take from me,
So well doth he love his kinsmen I Hath he known thee before to-day,
That so swiftly the service done him with such guerdon he would repay ? ' 705

' I may win what I will I trow me, of a sooth had he given me more ;
Now leave thou thy claim on his kingdom — ^'Tis time I a knight's shield

bore
For squire will I be no longer ! ' He laid on the rein his hand
' Thou art Lähelein, so I think me, who hath taken from me my land ! '

Then the knight he turned his spear-shaft, and he struck with so true a blow 710
That the lad and his sorry charger on the meadow he laid them low.
And the hero was swift in his anger, and he smote with a will so good
That there where the spear-shaft struck him there sprang forth bright drops

of blood.
Then Parzival sprang up swiftly and stood wrathful upon his feet
And he grasped his javelin firmly — ^Where the helm and the visor meet 715
And betwixt the twain is an opening, there the javelin swiftly sped
And thro' eye and neck it struck him, and the knight on the plain lay dead.
Fierce foe had he been to falsehood ; women's sighs, true hearts wounded

sore,
Were the fruit of his death, and with tear-drops must many an eye run o'er.

88 PARZIVAL

7^ And they whom his love made joyful their gladness asunder brake,
And their joy to the goal of sorrow o'er a rough road its way must take.

Then Parzival in his folly turned the dead knight o'er and o'er,

For fain would he loose his armour, yet was lacking the needful lore.

He fingered both helm and corslet with his bare white hands alone,
7^5 Yet the fastening he failed to loosen, nor with force might they be undone

Tho' oh and again he tried them, who in wisdom was all untaught.

Then the horses they neighed so loudly that the sound on the breeze was
brought

To Iwanefs ear, and he heard them, by the city moat he stood,

(To Queen Guinevere was he kinsman, and he did to her service good)
730 He heard the cry of the horses, but naught of the riders saw.

As his true heart would give him counsel, Parzival did he seek once more.

And Ither lay dead ; and his slayer by his folly was vexed amain —
Then swiftly he sprang to aid him, and Parzival thanks must gaiti
For the honour he here had won him o'er the hero of Cumberland :
735 ' God reward thee, but give me counsel for skill here doth foil mine hand,
How best may I loose this armour which myself I were fain to wear?'
' Such lore I right well may teach thee,' quoth Iwanet the proud and fair,
So the armour was reft from the dead man, 'fore Nantes on the grassy

plain,
And they did it upon the living, o'er whose dealings did folly reign.

740 Quoth Iwanet, * These leather leggings fit not with the mailM gear.

As a knight shalt thou now be clothM,' and the lad deemed it ill to hear ;
Quoth Parzival, ' What my mother aforetime hath given me
That cometh not from my body, or for good or for ill it be ! '
And much did Iwanet marvel, for clever was he i' troth,

745 Yet he followed perforce his bidding, nor waxed at his folly wroth.
And he drew above the leggings the hosen of shining mail,
Nor the spurs with red gold in-wroughten should unto the harness fail,
And of silk and gold the laces, nor leather might there be found.
Ere he gave unto him the corslet he bound him with greaves around,

750 And tho' o*er-long Parzival deemed it yet the time was swiftly sped,
£re in knightly armour shining he clad htm from foot to head.

GÜRNEMANZ 89

Then the lad would have ta'en his quiver, but Iwanet he spake out free,

' Nay, no javelin will I give thee, unknightly such arms shall be 1 '

Then he girt the sharp sword around him, and he showed how to draw the

blade,
And he bade him ne'er fly in battle, nor in conflict to be dismayed. 755

Then nearer he led unto him the charger the dead knight rode,
And 'twas tall and strong, yet the saddle the youth with one spring bestrode.
He recked not the weight of his armour, and of stirrups had little need —
E'en to-day do men speak of his swiftness, and the fame of his mighty deeds.

Nor o'er-much did Iwanet think it to teach him with fitting skill 7^

To hold his shield and to guard him, while he wrought to his foeman ill ;
And a spear in his hand he gave him — But Parxival turned aside,
' Nay, nay, what good may that do me ? ' Mf a joust one with thee would ride
Thou shalt on thy foeman break it, perchance drive it thro' his shield,
If thou doest that oft, *fore the maidens will they praise thee for well-fought 7^5
field.'

And this hath the venture told me, — Not in Maestricht, or e'en Cologne

Might a painter so fair a picture as this lad and his steed have shown.

Then straightway he spake to Iwanet^ ' My friend and companion dear,

The boon that I asked have I won me, of that art thou witness here.

My service bear thou to the city, to Arthur the noble king, 770

And mourn unto him my shaming— This cup thou again sbalt bring,

And tell him a knight hath wronged me, since he smote that maiden fair

Who looked, and who laughed upon me, and grief for her grief I bear.

Nor hath it but lightly touched me, it hath pierced to my inmost heart

This maid's woe all undeserved — Now do thou in her shame have part 775

Thro' the friendship that thou hast shown me I God keep thee in peace

alway,
And watch o'er us twain, for I think me no longer I here may stay ! '

And Ither the prince of Gaheviess on the plain had he lifeless left.
E'en in death was he fair to look on who was thus of fair life bereft.
If in joust by a spear-thrust piercM he thro' knighthood his death must gain 780
Who had mourned for the grief and the marvel? By a javelin he here was
slain.

90 PARZIVAL

Then Iwanet he strewed above him a covering of blossoms bright,
^d he smote the shaft of the javelin in the ground by the fallen knight,
And that lad so true and faithful, he pierced with the crimson blade
785 A bough of wood, and in this wise a cross o'er the dead man made.
Then he gat him again to the city, and the heavy tidings told ;
And from many a trembling woman, and from many a hero bold
Rose the wail of love and of sorrow ; and the dead would they fetch in state.
And the Host they bare before her, as the queen passed the city gate.

790 Then o'er Cumberland's prince and hero, who by Parzival's hand was slain,
Queen Guinevere spake in sorrow while her tear-drops they flowed amain,
' Alas ! alas ! for broken in twain is King Arthur's might,
For he whom the good Round Table accounted its bravest knight
Here slain before Nantes he lieth ! His heritage did he claim

795 Where men gave him death for his guerdon — For naught marred his knightly
fame ;
Here long hath he dwelt among us in such wise that never an ear
The tale of a deed unknightly, or wrong he had done, might hear.
He held him afar from falsehood, to guile was he aye a foe ;
The lock and the seal of knighthood all too soon must we bury low.

800 His heart wise in courteous wisdom, and steadfast as seal and sign.
Taught him ever the fairest counsel that a man's heart might aye divine,
Whereby with true love and courage a man woman's love may woo
And show manhood's truth — Fruit-bearing it seedeth itself anew
The plant of all woman's sorrow ! From thy wounds grief shall ever grow —

S05 So red was thy hair that the blossoms that bloom here thy corse below
Scarce redder may be with thy life-blood-* All laughter hast thou forbid
To fair women, and joy and gladness by thy death are for ever hid.'

Thus Ither, beloved of all men, as a king in the grave was laid, —
With his life must he pay for his armour who taught sighing to many a maid,
8x0 Since Parzival in his folly for the harness his death had sought,

Hereafter, when he won wisdom, he scarcely such deed had wrought 1

NOW this might ye mark in the charger, great labour it held as naught,
Were it hot, were it cold, no journey the sweat on its coat had brought ;
It sped over stone or tree-trunk, and scarce was there need to draw
815 The girth by one hole the tighter if the knight for two days it bore.

GÜRNEMANZ 91

60 fully armed, in his folly yet further he rode that day
Than a wise man unarmed in two days if his sfteed he betimes would stay.
And ever it onward galloped, and but seldom would walk or trot,
How to check its speed by the bridle as yet Parzival knew not

Then he saw the roof of a castle rise fair in the evening glow, 820

And the lad he thought in his folly that the towers from the earth must grow

Since the one roof bare so many — ^And he thought Arthur sowed such seed.

And he who could work such marvels were a holy man indeed !

Then he said, ' While at home I tarried ne'er looked I on woodland field

That a crop so rich and so stately in growth might ever yield ; 825

I think me my mother's people their labour but little know,

For never too dry, I think me, is the soil where their seed they sow ! ' —

Now Gumemanz of Graharz of this mighty Burg was lord :

At his portal a spreading linden stood £air on the summer sward.

Nor too long nor too wide was the meadow, and the horse and the road 830

they led
To where Parzival found him seated who of castle and land was head.

Now weariness sore Constrained him, nor his shield might he rightly hold
But it backward and forward wavered as beseemed not a rider bold.
And Prince Gumemanz sat all lonely, and the boughs of the linden tree
Gave shade as was meet to its master, the captain of courtesy — 835

And his life it fled from falsehood — Then e'en as should be his right
He gave to the guest fair welcome, and with him stood nor squire nor
knight

Then Parzival made him answer—In his folly he spake straightway,

' My mother bade me seek counsel from an old man with locks of grey ;

For thy rede will I do thee service, for so did my mother speak !' 840

' If here thou art come for counsel, and aid at my lips would seek,

Thy favour thou still shalt leave me whatever my counsel be.

If thou will that thy prayer I hearken, and give rede as seem best to me ! '

Then the prince cast a yearling falcon from his hand and aloft it flew.

And it winged its way to the castle, and its golden bells rang true, 845

'Twas a messenger ; and the pages came swiftly in garments fair.

And he bade them to lead the guest in, and lodging as meet prepare ;

93 PARZIVAL

And the lad he spake in his folly, ' My mother she told me true,
An thou follow an old man's counsel his rede shalt thou never rue 1

850 And the pages they led htm straightway where stood many a gallant knight,
And there in the castle courtyard from his steed did they bid him light.
Spake the youth, and he showed his folly, ' *Tis a King who hath bidden me
Be a knight, and whatever befall me on this charger my seat shall be.
My mother she bade me greet ye I ' And mother they thanked and son,

855 (Both horse and man were wearied) then, the words of greeting done,
Full many a time they urged him, but it cost them many a thought
Ere the lad within the castle, and from off his steed they brought.
Then they led him to a chamber, and they prayed the stranger guest,
' Let us loose thine harness off thee, that thy wearied limbs find rest.'

860 But scarce had they loosed his armour when lo I there came to view
A garment e'en such as Fools wear, and leggings of calf-skin new ;
Then startled and shamed they turned them, and they whispered each to all,
And with bated breath the tidings ran swift through the castle hall,
And the host for shame was speechless — But a knight spake in courtesy,

865 * Let that be as it may, one so noble mine eyes they might never see.
And Good Fortune hath looked upon him by his mien so high and fair—
Ah I he whom Love's light hath chosen, who bade him such garb to wear ?
And it grieveth me sore to find thus on the World's Joy such poor attire.
Ah ! well for the mother who bare him, she hath won her full heart's desire !

870 And his helmet is decked so costly ; ere his harness from him we took
It became him well, and knightly and noble I ween his look.
And many a bruise and blood-stain the lad on his limbs doth bear.'
Quoth the host, ' 'Tis perchance a woman who bade him such garb to wear ! '
' Nay, Sire, for so strange his bearing he would know not a maid to pray

875 To take from him knightly homage,— Tho' his face is so fair alway

It had fitted him well for Love's service.' Then the host spake, •'Tis best

we see
This lad, in whose strange attiring a marvel for sure shall be ! '

Then to Parzival they betook them, and they found that a wound he bare
From a spear that was never shattered, and the host for his hurts would care,
880 And so kindly I ween his tending that a &ther, whose heartfelt love
To his children, found no denial, his faith might no better prove.

GÜRNEMANZ 93

And he washed his wounds and bound them, the prince, with his own right

handy
Ere forth to the hall he led him where the evening meal should stand.

And food the guest sore needed, and hungry was he alway,

From the house of the fisherman fasting had he ridden at break of day, 885

And his wound and the heavy harness which he before Nantes had won

Wrought him weariness sore and hunger ere ever the ride was done.

For from Arthur the King of the Bretons the whole day he needs must ride,

Nor his fast at the Court had broken, and now it was eventide.

Then the host bade him eat at his table, and Parzival did his will, 890

And the food it swiftly vanished, as if one would a manger fill !

And Gumemanz was well pleasM, and ever the lad did pray

To eat as he would, and his hunger and weariness put away.

When 'twas time, and the meal was ended, ' Now weary art thou, I ween,'
Quoth the host to his guest, ' If this morning betimes thou a-foot hast been ?' 895
* God knoweth my mother slumbered, so early she ne'er doth wake.'
Then the host he laughed, and he led him where rest he right well might take,
And he bade him disrobe, tho' unwilling, he needs must — An ermine fair
They cast o'er his naked body, — fairer fruit never woman bare I

By weariness taught to slumber, but seldom throughout the night 900

On his other side did he turn him, he might well wait the morning light.

Then the prince he bade his servants ere ever 'twas middle day,

A bath, as was meet, make ready by the couch where the young knight lay,

And roses they threw within it — And tho' he no call might hear

The guest awoke from his slumbers, and he stepped in the waters clear. 905

I know not who sent them hither, but maidens richly dressed.

Lovely and sweet to look on, all courteous sought the guest.

They washed his wounds and bound them with their hands so soft and white,

(Nor should this o'er strange have seemed him who was reft of wisdom's

might)
And both ease he felt and gladness, nor his folly they made him rue— 910

Thus these &ir and gentle maidens they tended the lad anew.
And they spake 'twixt themselves, and he hearkened, yet never a word would

say.
Yet too early he might not deem it, for they shone as a second day,

94 PARZIVAL

And their beauty it vied with the morning, yet his fairness outshone the twain,
915 For naught to the youth was lacking that favour and praise might gain.
Then a linen cloth they proffered, but the lad he took it ill»
An he robed himself before them, their presence should shame him still.
Perforce must the maidens leave him, nor longer might linger there
Tho' in sooth they would fain have questioned lest deeper the wounds he
bare.
9ao (For such was the way of woman, and such is true woman's will,

Tho' scatheless themselves yet the sorrow of a friend it doth work them ill.)

Then he strode to the bed, and he found there fresh raiment so fine and
white,

With a girdle he bound it round him, 'twas of silk and of gold so bright ;

And hosen of scarlet woollen they drew on the fearless knight,
935 In sooth they well became him who was comely in all men's sight.

And of ruddy brown well fashioned, (nor lining they thought to spare)

Were robe alike and mantle, and within was the ermine fair,

And without were they decked with sable, both black and grey in hue ;

Then the gallant youth the mantle around his shoulders threw,
930 With a belt so rich and costly he girt him found the waist.

And the fastening of the mantle with a golden, clasp was graced.

And his mouth was red and glowing — Then his host he drew anigh,
And many a proud knight followed, to greet him courteously,
And e'en as 'twas done the heroes they spake with a great amaze
935 ' Ne'er saw they a man so goodly ! '—And all would the mother praise
Who such son to the world had given — And in truth and in courtesy
They spake, * Whatsoe'er he asketh for his service fulfilled shall be.
And favour and love await him if his worth win its meed alway,'
And of those who hereafter saw him none were there who said them nay.

940 By his hand the host then took him, and forth from his chamber led,

And the prince fain would hear the story how the night hours with him had

sped,
^ Were it otherwise, I think me that living I scarce might wake,
'Twas well that my mother bade me thus shelter with thee to take
Ere yet from her I had ridden-^May God requite ye both,

945 For mercy Sir Knight, and kindness, hast thou shown to me nothing loth,'

i

GURNEMANZ 9S

So went our hero witless where to God and the host they 'd sing,

And the prince by the Mass would teach hiin that which health to the soul

shall bring.
He would rede him well of the Offering — How to sign himself with the Cross,
And thus work on the Devil vengeance, who seeketh for aye our loss !

Then again to the hall of the castle and the morning meal they came, 950

And the host set his guest beside him, and he ate without fear or shame.
Then out spake the prince so courteous, ' An it seemeth not ill to thee.
Fain am I to know thy dwelling, and from whence thou art come to me ? '
Then frankly he told the story how his mother's side he fled,
Of the ring and the clasp so golden, and the winning the harness red. 955

And the prince he knew the Red Knight, and his fate it pleased him ill,
And the name of his guest he asked not but ' The Red Knight ' he called
him still.

Then e'en as the meal was over, were they tamed the ways so wild,
For the host to his guest he quoth thus ' Thou speakest as doth ä child.
Why hold not thy peace of thy mother, and otherwise turn thy speech ? 960

An thou follow henceforth my counsel far wiser the ways I '11 teach ! '

' And thus I begin, do thou hearken — From true shame shalt thou never flee,

A shameless man, bethink thee, what place in the world hath he ?

As a bird that moulteth ever so his honour doth fall away.

And hereafter he hath his portion in the fires of Hell for aye.' 965

' So noble methinks thy bearing, a folk's Lord thou well mayst be ;
If high be thy birth, and yet higher the lot that awaiteth thee,
Then see that thy heart hath pity for the poor and needy man
And fight thou against his sorrow wilh free gifts as best thou can.
For a. true knight must aye be humble — A brave man who need doth know 970
Full often with shame he battles, and sore is that strife I trow,
For him shall thy help be ready — (Who lighteneth his brother's need
From Heaven he winneth favour as rewarding for righteous deed.)
For Hi sooth his case is harder than theirs who as beggars stand
'Neath the window, and succour seeking, for bread shall stretch forth the 975
hand.*

96 PARZIVAL

' Thou shalt learn in a fitting measure both rich and poor to be,
Who spendeth as lord at all times no lordly soul hath he —
Yet who heapeth o'er-much his treasure he winneth methinks but shame,
But give thou unto each their honour, so best shalt thou guard thy £ame.'

980 ' I saw well as thou earnest hither that thou hadst of my counsel need —
Yield not unto ways discourteous but give to thy bearing heed.
Nor be thou so swift to question—^tt I would not that thou withhold
An answer good and fitting to the speech one with thee would hold.
Thou canst hear and see, I wot well lull five shalt thy senses be,

985 An thou use them aright, then wisdom it draweth an^ar to thee.'

* In thy wrath remember mercy, and slay not a conquered foe,

lie who to thine arms shall yield him take his pledge and let him go ;

Unless he such ill have wrought thee as sorrow of heart doth give.

An my counsel thou fain wouldst follow, then in sooth shalt thou let him live.'

990 ' Full oft shalt thou bear thy harness — When thy knightly task is sped
Thy hands and face thou shalt cleanse them fi-om the rust and the iron red,
For such is in truth thy duty, so thy face shall be fair and bright,
And when maiden's eyes behold thee they shall deem thee a goodly sight.'

* Be manly and of good courage, so shalt thou deserve thy fame ;

995 Hold women in love and honour, it shall be to thine own good name ;
And be ever steadfast-minded as befitteth good man and true.
An with lies thou wouldst fain deceive them much harm can thy dealings do.
If true love be repaid with falsehood then swift shalt the judgment be.
And a speedy end to all honour and renown shall it bring to thee.

1000 As beneath the stealthy footsteps of the thief the dry stick breaks,
And the slumbering watcher, startled, to his danger swiftly wakes
So false ways and dealings crooked in their wake bring but strife and woe ;
Prove this by true love, for true women have skill 'gainst the hidden foe,
And their wiles can outweigh his cunning — An thou winnest from women
hate,

1005 Then for ever art thou dishonoured, and shame on thy life shall wait*

' So take thou to heart my counsel — And more would I tell to thee ;
Husband and wife united as one shall they ever be,

r

GURNEMANZ 97

As the sun that this morning shineth, and this mora that we call to-day,

So the twain may be sundered never but am shall be held alway.

As twin blossoms from one root springing e*en so shall they bloom and grow ; loxo

With wisdom receive my counsel that its truth thou hereafter know.'

Then he thanked his host for his teaching, nor spake of his mother more.
But as true man and son so loving in his heart her memory bore.

Then the prince spake as did him honour, ' Yet more will I teach to thee,
Thou shalt leara knightly skill and bearing— In such wise didst thou come 10x5

tome,
Full many a wall have I looked on that the shields might better deck
Than that shield erewhile became thee, as it hung there around thy neck.
None too late shall be the morning, we '11 hence to the open field,
And fitting skill I'll teach thee that thine arms thou mayst rightly wield.
So bring to my guest his charger, and mine shalt thou hither lead, xoao

And each knight shall make him ready, and mount, e'en as I, his steed
And pages shall thither follow, and each one shall bear a spear,
And the shaft shall be strong and untested, and blazoned with colours dear.'

So the prince and his guest together they rode to the grassy plain,

And many a feat so skilful was shown by that knightly train. 1015

And the lad he learned how to check him his charger in seeming flight

With touch of spur, and turn him once more 'gainst the foeman's might ;

His spear to sink as needed, and before him hold his shield

As he rode a joust ; ' Thus shalt thou thine arms in future wield ! '

Thus of lack of skill he cured him better than by the bough 1^30

That smiteth unruly children and breaketh their skin I trow.
Then he bade swift knights come hither, and a joust with the stranger ride,
And himself to the ring he led him, and against the foe would guide ;
And the lad in his first.joust carried his spear through the foeman's shield.
And tho* strong was the knight yet he smote him from his steed on the open X035
field.

And they marvelled much who beheld it— Then another to joust rode near,
And Parnval took unto him a fresh and unbroken spear,

VOL. I. G

98 PARZIVAL

And his youth had strength and courage — The beardless lad and fair
Was spurred by his inborn manhood, and to Gamuret's skill was heir —

1040 Then he urged his chaiger onward full swiftly against the foe,-

And his spear rang true on the four nails, and struck nor too high nor low,
Nor the host's knight might keep his saddle, but prone on the sward he fell,
Of the spear-shaft full many a splinter the force of the blow might telL
Thus üvt of the knights were smitten ere the host to the Burg would ride,

z(M5 And the victory was his, and hereafter fierce strife might he well abide.

Then they who his deeds had witnessed, the wise men, they needs must say
That great was the skill and valour he had shown in the joust that day,
' Our lord may be free of sorrow, and his youth it may bloom anew
If he give him to wife his daughter, our lady so fair and true.
1050 If we see him wax in wisdom then the sorrow shall be o'erpast —
The death of his sons a shadow o'erlong o'er his life hath cast,
But now to his door hath ridden one who maketh amends for all,
And gladness no more shall fly him, but it seeketh his palace hall ! '

Then homeward they turned at even when the board for the feast was
spread,
1055 And the prince bade his daughter hither (for so I the tale have read)
As he saw the maid draw near him the host to Liass^ spake,
' To this knight shalt thou do aU honour, and a kiss from his lips shalt take,
With Good Fortune for guide he fareth ! And of iMee would I pray this

thing.
If token perchance she beareth, thou wilt leave to the maid her ring —
1060 Yet none hath she, nor clasp — ^Who should give her what that forest princess
wore?
For s^ won from the hand of her husband what thine hand from her rai-
ment tore,
From Uass/cdXkst thou take little ' — Then the lad he must blush for shame,
On her lips did kiss the maiden, and her mouth it was red as flame.
And Liass^ was £ur to look on, and gentle of heart and pure,
Z065 And a herp might well have loved her with a love that should aye endure.

Full long and low was the table, nor many might sit thereat,

At its head was the prince so kindly, and his guest by his side he set

GURNEMANZ 99

Betwixt him and his daughter, and the maiden with snow-white hand
Most carve, as he willed, for the Red Knight, so her fiither would give

command.
And courteous, she did his bidding, and none did the twain prevent ^070

As shy glances rosy-blushing, they each to the other sent !

The feast over, the maiden left them, but she bade not the guest 'Farewell,*
For twice seven days in honour Parzival with his host did dwell.
But within his heart lay a sorrow, 'twas no other I ween than this,
He would he enough had striven to be worthy of wedded bliss, 1075

And he thought him a goal so worthy must lead to a guerdon high
Both in this life and e'en in the other — And these words they shall be no
lie.

One morning for leave he prayed him, from Graharz he fisun would ride,
And his host, sore loth to lose him, awhile rode his steed beside.
Fresh sprang of grief the fountain as the prince spake, ' I lose once more zo8o
A son. Death of three hath robbed me, thy loss now shall make Ütkicmfour.
And threefold it was, my sorrow — ^Who my heart would in pieces smite
Fourfold and from hence would bear them, in the pain should I find

delight.
One for thee, since thou ridest from me, and three for my three sons slain —
Bravely they fell in battle, such guerdon doth knighthood gain I ' 1085

' And its end is of sorrow woven — One death all my joy doth lame.

The death of my son so gallant, Schenteflur did they call his name ;

When Kondwiramur her kingdom and herself would withhold with strife

From Klamidö the king, and Kingron, in her aid did he. lose his life.

And my heart with the thrust of sorrow, as a hedge is it piercM thro*. 2090

Now all too soon dost thou leave me since no comfort from thee I drew,

Ah ! would Death were here my portion since Liassd, that maiden bright.

And the land I had deemed so goodly find no &vour in this thy sight ! '

' My other son. Count Laskoit, by Id^r son of Noit was slain

Anent a hawk — Litde gladness from his death I methinks might gain — X095

Gurzgrei did they call my third son, to whom Mahaut gave her heart.

As his wife did he win the maiden from her brother proud EloqUtt.

lOO

PARZIVAL J

Gainst Brandigan on a venture for Schoie-de-la-kurt he 'Id ride,
And the Prince Mabonagrein smote him, and there by his hand he died.
9000 And Mahaut she lost her beauty, and his mother, my wife, lay dead,
For thro' sorrow and bitter yearning the days of her life were sped.'

Then the guest saw his host's deep sorrow as he told unto him his woe,
And he quoth, ' Little wisdom have I, yet if ever the day I know
When 1 win knightly fame and honour, so that maiden I well may woo,
9005 Thou shalt give unto me Liass^, thy daughter so fair and true.

Thou hast told me of o'er-much sorrow ; if thy grief I may lift from thee
From the load of so sore a burden I gladly will set thee free ! '

Then leave from the prince so kindly the young knight that mom would

pray,
And from all his gallant vassals ; and he rode from their land away ;
9010 And the prince, in the game of sorrow, tho' heavy before his throw,
Had lost yet more, for from threefold to fourfold his grief must grow.

I

r

BOOK IV

KONDWIRAMUR

i

1

ARGUMENT

Book iv. teils how Parzival came to Pelrapär, and found it besieged by
sea and land, and the folk wasted by (amine. How Queen Kondwiramur
besought his aid ; how he overthrew Kingron, and sent him to the court j

of King Arthur. How Parzival wedded the Queen ; and of the wrath gj

of King Klamidd when he heard the tidings. How the Burgers defended
Pelrapär against their foemen ; how Klamidö challenged Parzival to single
combat, and was overthrown ; and how he came to the court of King
Arthur at Dianasdron. Of the love of Parzival and Kondwiramur ; and
how the hero parted from his wife, and went in search of knightly venture.

1

BOOK IV
KONDWIRAMUR

HUS Panival parted from them, and courteous he now might
bear
His knightly garb, and he knew them, the customs of knight-
hood fair.
But alas t he full sore was troubled with maily a bitter paiuj
And the world was too close, and too narrow the width of the spreading

plain.
And the greensward he thought was faded, and his harness had paled to 5

white ;
So the heart the eye constraineth and dimmeth awhile the sight.

For since he had waxed less simple somewhat of his fiaither's lore,

The desire of the man for the maiden, in his wakening heart he bore ;

And he thought but of fair Liass^, that maiden so true and sweet.

How never her love she proffered, yet with honour the guest would greet. lo

And wherever his horse might turn it he took in his grief no heed,

And if slowly it paced or swiftly he thought not to guide its speed.

Nor many a field well-fenced nor wayside cross he found ;

Nor chariot-wheel nor horse-hoof had furrowed with tracks the grotmd ;

Untrodden the woodland pathway, nor wide was I ween the way, 15

And he knew not the hills and the valleys — Full oft shall ye hear men say,

* Who rideth astray, in his wandering the lost axe may often find.'

They lay here unnumbered round him, if for ax€ ye have ^ees in mind.

Yet tho' far was the road he journeyed yet he went in no wise astray.

And thus from the land of Graharz he rode through the livelong day, 90

I04 PARZIVAL

Till he came to the kingdom of Brobarz thro' mountains wild and high —
When the shadows of evening lengthened, and red flushed the western sky.
Then he came to a mountain torrent, and the voice of the raging flood
Rang clear as its waves rushed foaming round the crags that amid them stood.
25 So he rode adown by the waters till he came to the city fair

Which a king had bequeathed to his daughter ; 'twas the city of Pehapär,
And I wot that tbo' fair the maiden who bare ofthat land the crown«
Great grief and small gladness had they who dwelt in that noble town !

Like an arrow that swiftly speedeth from the bow by a strong arm bent,
30 The waters onward rushing on their downward pathway went ;
And a bridge hung high above them with woven work so fair,
And the stream it flowed swift to the ocean — Well-guarded was Pelrapär,
As children in swings delight them, and swing themselves to and fro,
So swung the bridge, yet ropeless, youthful gladness it scarce might know !

35 And on either side were standing, with helmets for battle bound.
Of knights e'en more than thirty, and they bade him to turn him round.
And with lifted swords, tho' feeble, -the strife would they gladly wait,
They thought 'twas the King Klamidd whom they oft had seen of late.
So royally rode the hero to the bridge o'er the field so wide —

40 As thus to the youth they shouted, and with one voice his arms defied,
Tbo' he spurred his steed full sharply it shrank from the bridge in fright.
But ne'er knew he a thought of terror — To the ground sprang the gallant

knight«
And he led his horse by the bridle where the bridge hung high in air.
Too faint were a coward's courage so bitter a strife to dare I

45 And well must he watch his footsteps for he feared lest his steed should fall —
From the other side of the water the knights had ceased their call,
And with shield and sword-blade gleaming within the town they passed,
For they feared lest an army followed, and they closed their portals fast.

So Parzival crossed the river, and he rode o'er a grassy plain
50 Where many in search of knighthood must death for their guerdon gain ;
And he came to the palace portal, and stately the Burg and high.
And there hung there a ring of iron, and he gripped it right manfully.
But none to his call made answer, save only a maiden bright
Who looked forth from out her window, and was 'ware of the gallant knight.

KONDWIRAMUR 105

Spake the maiden so fiur and coarteous, ' An thou comest, Sir Knight, as foe, 55

Litde need have we <tf thine hatred, for heavy enough our woe,

A wrathful host doth threaten ahready by sea and land ! '

Then he quoth, * Nay, gentle lady, at thy portals a man doth stand

Who will, if he can, do thee service I For thy service my hand is fiiin,

And never reward save thy greeting as payment I think to gain.' ^

Then the maiden she went in her wisdom to the queen and an entrance

prayed
For the knight, and in sooth his coming it brought to their sorrow aid.

So Parzival came to the city ; down the roadway on either hand

The folk who would fain defend them in dose groups he saw them stand,

Soldiers on foot, and slingers, and they who the dart could throw, 65

He saw as he came towards them, in many a goodly row.

And many a squire so valiant, the bravest from out the land.

Long, sharp, and strong were the lances they bare in each stroog right hand.

There too, so the story telleth, was many a merchant grave,

And the javelin and axe were their weapons, so their lady commandment gave. 70

And their skins, they were loose for hunger — Then the Marshal of the queen
Made his way thro* their ranks to the castle, and heavy his task I ween.
And well was that castle guarded, with towers o'er the chambers high ;
And barbican, keep, and oriel in such numbers they met his eye
That buildings so strong and so many in his lifetime he never saw, 75

And on horse or afoot from all sides the knights to his welcome draw.
^was a sorry host, for as ashes some were grey, some were pale as clay,
(My lord the Count of Wertheim sure had starved on such scanty pay !)

Thro' want full sore they hungered, nor cheese, nor bread, nor meat

Had they, and their teeth were idle since naught might they find to eat. 80

And their palate knew naught of the flavour of the wine-cup, or red or white,

And their doublet hung loosely on them, and wasted each limb of might,

And their 3kin like wrinkled leather on each rib hung gaunt and grim,

For hunger their flesh had wasted and driven from every limb.

Thro' want must they sorely suffer, little grease in their fuel ran — 85

(A hero to this had forced them, the proud King of Brandigan,

Thus they paid for Klamid^s wooing)— The mead might they seldom spill,

For small was their store, I think me, the vessel or cup to fill.

io6 PARZIVAL

In Triihending oft shall ye heatken the hiss of the frying cake,
90 In such music, methinks, but seldom the folk might their pleasure take !

(And if for such want I Id mock them, then in truth must I share their shame,
For thefe where I oft dismount me, where men do me ^ Master^ name.
At home in mine house, with trouble e'en the mice shall their portion steal,
Nor oft for their food be joyful t Nor need they the bread conceal,
95 Unhidden, I scarce may find it —Yea, oft doth it happen so.

And I, Wolfram of Eschenbach, ofttimes such pleasure and ease may know)

But enough of my lamentadon, once more ye the tale shall hear
How the dty was full of sorrow, and for gladness they paid full dear.
How these heroes, so rich xfi courage, must in need and in scarceness live,
100 For so did the manhood bid them, to their need shall ye pity give —

For their life stood in pledge, might He free it in Whose Hand all power
shall be!—

■

Yet more of their grief would I tell ye that ye mourn for them bitterly.
With shame their guest did they welcome, for they deemed him so rich and

great
That he craved not thro* need their shelter ; he knew naught of their poor

estate.

105 On the grass did they spread a carpet, where a linden was walled around.
And trained to a welomie shadow— 'Neath its boughs they his arms unbound.
And the vassab they took his harness ; but other than theirs his face
When he in the streamlet washed it, and cleansed it from red rust trace ;
Nay, the sunlight's rays were shamM 'neath the glow of his beauty bright,

xxo And a worthy guest they thought him as they gazed on the gallant knight.
Then a mantle rich they brought him e'en like to the robe he bare,
And new was the smell of the sable wherewith it was garnished fiur.

Then they spake, 'Wilt thou look upon her, the queen, our lady true ?'
And the knight made answer straightway, that thing would he gladly do.
X15 To the palace they came, and the stairway steep and high to the portal led.
And the light of a fair fgz<t met him when his footsteps so far were sped.
Of his eyes should she be the sweetness— There shone from that lady

bright
A radiant glow and dazzling, ere she welcomed the stranger knight

^ KONDWIRAMUR 107

Now Kiot of Katelangen and Manfilot, Dakes the twain,
Led hither their brother's daughter who as queen o'er this land did reign: 120
(For the love of God their harness, shield, and sword, had they put away
These princes true and stalwart, fietir of hct tho* their hair was grey.)
Midway adown the staircase all courteous the maid they led,
And she kissed the gallant hero, and the lips of the twain were red ;
And she gave him her hand, and she led him, Sir Parzival, to the hall, 135

* And they sat them adown together in the midst of the courtiers all

And feeble and faint the maidens, and the knights who stood there around,
And vassal alike and hostess, small joy in their life they found.
Yet Kondwiramur, her beauty did high o'er all others stand,
Were it Enid, or fair Jeschut^ or Kunnewaard of far Lalande, 130

Whoe'er men had deemed the £urest when they women's beauty weighed,
Their fame to the earth was smitten by the glance of this royal maid.
Yea, even the twain Isold^ tho' men praise them evermore.
They must yield the crown of beauty to the lady Kondwiramur.
^ (And her name in our tongue betokens her shapely form and üaiir) 135

And well had they done, the mothers, who had borne such a goodly pair
As these twain who sat here together, naught did they who stood around
But gaze on the one and the other — Many friends had our hero found.

And the thoughts of the knight will I tell ye, * TAere Liass6, Liassö here, —
God will free me from care since I see here Liass^ that maiden dear 140

The child of a gallant father 1 '—-Yet her fairness was naught I wot,
'Gainst her beauty who sat beside him, in whom God no wish forgot.
(The maiden was queen of the country) Yea, e'en as by morning dew
Refreshed, the rose from its calyx forth buddeth in beauty new,
^ And is white and red together— And grief to her guest it wrought, 145

To whose courtesy naught was lacking since Gumemanz' side he sought.
And his words had from folly freed him^ and had bidden him questions

spare
Save only where they were needful — So he sat by that lady fair.
And never a word his lips spake, tho' he sat close the maid beside —
Yet to those who know more of woman such silence doth oft betide. 150

■ Then the queen to herself said softly, ' This man disdaineth me.
He deemeth my fairness frided. Nay, perchance it yet ma^ be

io8 PARZIVAL

That in this thing he doeth wisely, his hostess in sooth am I,
And he is my guest, the first speech should be mine assuredly 1
IBS Gendy he looks upon me tho* never a word we speak^

And courteous hath been his bearing, 'twere well I^he silence break ;

Too long have I yet delayed me since here side by side we sit'

To her guest did she turn, the maiden, and she spake as it seemed her fit :

^ Sir Knight, it were well as hostess that the first words came from me, ^

xte Since I wot well my kiss as hostess a greeting hath won from thee,
And thou ofieredst me thy service, so my maiden hath borne me word,
Our guests scarce are wont to do so, tho' the tidings I fain had heard.
Now tell me, my guest, I prithee, since the tale I am fain to know,
From whence art thou come to my kingdom, and whither thou yet wouldst
go?'
165 ' Lady, at early morning I rode from my host away,

A brave knight is he and faithful, yet he sorroweth sore to-day.

And Prince Gumemanz do men call him, in Graharz he holds command,

From thence I to-day have ridden, thence came I unto*this land 1 it*

Then the noble maiden answered, ' Sir Knight, had another told
170 This tale, methinks that scarcely for truth I the words might hold,
That thou in one day hadst ridden a journey that scarce in twain
My swiftest squire could compass, tho' his charger he spurred amain !
Thy host was my mother's brother ; his daughter's youthful glow.
It hath paled before the sorrow which she, e'en as I, must know.
175 For many sad days and mournful, with sad eyes we Ve wept our fill
I, and the maid Liass6 — Wouldst thou show to thy host goodwill ?
Then thou shalt with us, man and woman, this night-tide our sorrow share,
Thou shalt serve him thereby ; and I 'U tell thee the want we perforce must

bear.' i

Then out spake her uncle Kiot, * Lady, I send to thee
180 Twelve loaves of bread, and of shoulders and hams do I give thee three,
And eight cheeses too are with them, and two casks of wine I trow,
And my brother, he too shall aid thee, of such aid hast thou need enow ! '
And Manfilot spake, 'Yea, Lady, I send thee the self-same fare.'
And the maiden she sat in gladness, and of thanks she no word would ^
spare.

KONDWIRAMUR 109

Then leave they craved from their lady, and forth would the old men ride 185
To their hunting-hocise that was nigh there — But the cell where they would

abide.
Was in Alpine wilds so lonely, there unarmed did they dwell afar,
And never a foeman vexed them with tumult or strife of war.

And the messenger sped full swiftly, and the feinting folk were fed.

No Burger within the city but was lacking lor other bread, 190

And many were dead of hunger ere food for their need was found.

Then the queen she bade them share it to the feeble folk around,

With the cheese, the flesh, and the red wine, as Parrival counsel gave,

Scarce a morsel was left, yet they shared it, the queen and her guest so brave.

And swiftly the store had vanished, tho' to many who yet might live, 195

Nor were slain by cruel hunger this succour fresh life might give.

Then they bade them a couch make ready for the guest, and 'twas soft his

bed,
(Had the Burgers been hawks for the hunting methinks they were not o'er-fed
As their scanty board bare witness) yea, the folk there, one and all,
Bare the marks of bitter hunger, save the gallant Parzival. 200

Then leave he prayed of his hostess, he would lay him down to rest

Do ye think that for tapers straw-wisps must light so brave a guest ?

Nay, better were they I think me ; he betook him, the hero fair,

To a bed so rich and stately a king well might slumber there.

Nor of poverty bare it token, and a carpet before it lay. 205

Then he prayed the knights to go hence, nor longer there delay.

And noble lads un-shod him, and straightway he fell asleep.

Till the cry of heart-sorrow woke him, and tears that bright eyes should weep.

This chanced e'en as I will tell ye ; no woman's law she brake.

For pure wais she aye, the maiden of whom this venture spake. 210

Long stress of war constrained her, and the death of her champion true,

So heavy her heart with sorrow that sleep from her eyelids flew.

So she went, this royal lady, (but never such love to claim

As urgeth a gentle maiden to crave of a wift the name)

But she sought help and friendly coimsel, tho' clad in a warlike gear, 215

A silken shift, (strife she wakeneth who doth thus to a man draw near.)

no PARZIVAL

And the maiden she wrapped around her a mantle of samite long.
And she went as her steps were guided by sorrow and bitter wrong.

Her maidens and waiting women who lay there around her bed
She left them slumbering softly, and with noiseless footsteps sped
To a chamber, there, e'en as she bade them, Parrival all lonely lay,
And around his couch the tapers burnt bright as the light of day.
To his bed she turned her footsteps, and she knelt low his couch before.
But no thought of love unlawftil the heart of either bore.
^5 Of joy bereft was the maiden, his help she was fain to claim,
If awhile they lay there together it brought unto neither shame.

So bitter the maiden^ sorrow that there fell full many a tear

On Parzival, and her weeping thro' his slumbers the knight might hear.

And waking, he looked upon her, and sorrow and joy he felt,

«30 And he rose up, the youthful hero, as the maiden before him knelt.

And he spake to the queen, * Say, Lady, wilt thou now make a mock of me ?
To God only, and never to mortal methinks shouldst thou bow the knee.
But rise thou and sit beside me, or grant me I pray this grace.
Lay thyself down where I was lying, I will seek me some other place ! '

^55 But she spake, * Thyself yrAX. thou honour, and show honour alike to me,
And by never a touch wilt shame me, I will e'en lay me down by thee.'
Then the knight he spake by his knighthood he would e'en do as he should

say.
So down on the bed beside him in peace the maiden lay.

Tho' well sped were the hours of the night-time no cock did they hear to
crow,
a4o Empty and bare the perches, for the £amine had left themsa

Then the maiden, grieving sorely, prayed him courteous her plaint to
hear,

'Twill rob thee of sleep an I teU thee, and work to thee ill I fear.

My foeman the King Klamidd, and Kingron his seneschal,

My castles and lands have wasted, yea, all but this citadel
945 My father, King Tampentare, by his death me, poor orphan, left

In peril and need so deadly, of all hope am I well-nigh reft.

Kinsmen and princes many, and vassals, both rich and poor.

Yea, a mighty army served me, but they serve me now no more.

J

KONDWIRAMUR m

One half, nay, fax more I think me, in defence of my land are slain,

Alas ! whmce shall I, poor maiden, or gladness or succour gain ? ^5°

In such sore strait do I find me, I am ready myself to kill

Ere my maidenhood and this body I yield to Klamidd's will

His wife he is fain to make me, yet his was the hand that slew

My Knight Schenteflur, the hero, whose heart was both brave and true,

And the flower was he of all manhood, falsehood he ne'er might know, ^55

Who was brother unto Liass6, and she too shall share my woe.'

But e'en as she named Liass^ then sorrow awoke anew

In his heart who would £ain do service, and his spirit, so high and true.

Sank, as sinketh a hill to the valley, at the thought ofthat maiden dear :

Yet he spake to the queen, * Say, Lady, how best may I serve thee here ? ' 260

' Sir Knight an thou couldst but rid me of Kingron the seneschal ;

In knightly joust of my warriors full many before him fell

With the morning again he cometh, and he thinketh that free from harm

His lord soon shall lie, my husband, in the clasp of my circling arm.

My Burg hast thou seen, and thou knowest how lofty its towers and high, ^5

Yet down to the moat below them will- 1 fling myself joyfully.

Ere of maidenhood King Klamid^ shall rob me against my will.

If no better may be, then by dying, his boasting I yet may still ! '

Then he quoth. Lady, French or Breton, of what country soe'er he be,

From Kingron my hand shall shield thee, with what power may be given to 370

me.'
The night was spent, with the dawning the queen she arose again.
Lowly she bent before him, nor from thanks would her lips restrain.
Then she passed from the chamber softly, and no man might be aware,
Tho* wise were he else, of her errand, save only the knight so fair.

Nor Parzival longer slumbered, for the sun was swift to rise, 275

And it pierced thro' the clouds of morning, and smote on his wakened eyes ;
And he heard the sweet bells chiming, as the folk church and minster

sought.
For Klamid^ their joy had banished, and their land in sore peril brought

Then up rose the young knight also ; the chaplain was in his place

And he sang to God and his lady ; and the guestsaw the maiden's face, aSo

113 PARZIVAL

And he gazed till the Mass was ended, and the benediction o'er.
Then he bade them to bring his harness, and soon was he anned once moxe,
A good knight and strong they deemed him, in gallant armour fair.
Then on came Klamid^'s anny with banners borne high in air.
985 And Kingron, he came full swiftly, he sped for before the force,
And, so hath the story told me, of Iserterre's land his horse.
And there waited before the portal the son of King Gamuret,
And the prayers and the hopes of the townsfolk on the youthful knight were
set

Nor with sword he ere this had striven — ^From afar did he aim his stroke,

990 And so swift his joust, in the meeting the gear of both chargers broke.
And their girths were burst asunder, and each steed to its knees was brought.
And the heroes who yet bestrode them of their swords must they needs take

thought ;
In their scabbards did they find them — ^And already did Kingron bear
Wounds in arm and breast, and I wot me that loss was his portion there.

995 For this joust brought him loss of the glory that methinks had been his
alway
Till he met with this knight, and their meeting, of his pride was the dying day.
And valiant did men account him, six knights had he prostrate laid
Who rode in one field against him, yet here was he well repaid
By Parzival's right hand valiant, and Kingron the seneschal

3Po Thought strange was indeed his peril, for stones surely on him fell
Cast forth from a mighty engine — Other arms wrought his overthrow.
For a sword clave clean thro' his helmet, and Pandval laid him low,
And he knelt with one knee upon him, and he bade him forthwith to give
What he ne'er to a foe had given, his pledge, an he fain would live.

905 But he thought not to be his captor who had vanquished him here in field,
But he bade him ride hence to Graharz and his pledge to its lord to yield.

^ Nay, Sir Knight, thou hadst better slay me, 'twa(s I who slew his son,
Twas my hand of life that robbed him, Sdientefiur— Thou from God hast

won
Great honour, yea, men shall praise thee for the strength that thou here hast

shown,
310 Of a sooth art thou here the victor, and Good Fortune shall be thine own.'

<

KONDWIRAMUR 113

Quoth Parzival, * Yet another is the choice I will give to thee,

Yield thou to the queen whom thy master in his wrath wronged so grievously !'

' Nay ! Then were I lost of a surety, for I wot with their sword-blades keen

My body they 'Id hew in pieces, small as dust in the sun is seen 1

Such sorrow of heart, I think me, and grief thro* my hand they win, 315

Full many a gallant hero who dwelleth those walls within.'

' Then hence from this plain shalt thou journey to the kingdom of Brittany,

And bear to a gentle maiden thy pledge and thy fealty.

For she for my sake hath suffered a sorrow she ne'er had borne,

Had not Kay been of knightly customs, and of courtesy fair forsworn. 3^0

Say to her how with me it fareth, that I come not' in joy again

Till my spear, thro' his shield sharp-piercing, hath wiped out her honour's stain.

To King Arthur and to his lady» and the knights of the Table Round

Bear my greeting, and say in their presence shall I never again be found

Till the day I from shame have freed me ; from the shame which /too must 32$

share
With the n^aiden who smiled upon me, and great grief for that greeting bare.
Say to ^er I am aye her servant, to serve her with service fain \ '
So Kingron must swear unto him ere they parted, those heroes twain.

Thus he came afdot to the city, for thither had fled his steed.

The Burgers' help in battle, from their anguish the folk he freed. 330

But the outer host was troubled that Kingron, their chosen knignt.

In this wise had been dishonoured, and broken his dauntless might.

Then they led Parzival in triumph to their queen so fair and young,

And the maiden was fain to greet him, and her white arms around him clung,

And in close embrace she held him as she spake, ' The wide earth doth hold 335

No man I will have for my husband save him whom these arms enfold ! '

And as here they disarmed the hero her part would the maiden bear

With ready hand and skilful, nor her service she thought to spare.

But tho' heavy had been his labour, yet scanty, I ween, the board.

And the Burgers they came before him, and they sware him with one accord 340

They would have him for lord and master ; and the queen in her turn she

spake.
And she said that this knight so valiant for her love and her lord she 'Id take
VOL. I. H

114 PARZIVAL

Who had won him a fome so mighty o'er Kingron the seneschal —
But now from the castle bulwarks two sails might be seen bjr all,
345 A strong wind to the haven brought them, and their lading must needs make
glad
The folk, they bare naught but victuals, — God's guidance they surely had !

Then they rushed adown from the ramparts, and swift to the ships they fled.
The hungxy crowd, for the booty, as leaves by the wind are sped:
With flesh they were not overweighted, so wasted and thin were they,

350 Nor they strutted with well-filled belly, but bending they went their way.
The queen's marshal he sware the shipmen, by the doom of the hempen cord,
Safe conduct for life and lading, none should touch that which lay aboard.
Then he bade them to lead these merchants straightway into the town.
And Parxival for their lading the double he paid them down,

355 And gladly the merchants took it, for princely they deemed such pay ;
And the Burgers these welcome viands to their fires did they bear straight-
way.

Now fain would I there take service, no man of them all drank beer,
Wine and food had they there in plenty — ^Then he did as you now shall hear,
Parzival, the gallant hero, for first in portions small,
3^ With his own right hand he shared out the viands among them all.
Yea, even unto the nobles ; so long had they lacked for bread.
He feared it had wrought them evil if perchance they were over-fed.
But to each one he gave his portion, and his counsel they deemed it right,
And more should they win ere nightfall from the hand of this gallant knight

5^5 To their marriage couch they bade them, 'twas the will* both of king and
queen —
Yet throughout the night so courteous he bare him, in truth I ween,
He little had pleased those ladies who now, in these latter days.
In passion's heat forget all that should win for a woman praise ;
ThoT modest they seem to strangers, yet their heart gives their mien the lie,

370 And their tenderness worketh sorrow to their friend, tho* in secrecy.
But tfie steadfast knight and faithful guards himself at every hour,
And well knoweth to spare a woman an she chanceth within his power.
For he thinketh, and thinketh truly, ' For many a lonely year
For her favours I served this lady ; now, behold, the day is here

KONDWIRAMUR 115

When ha: will is to reward me, and here we twain do lie — 375

Had I touched with bare hand her vestttre I were blest to eternity !

An I vantage take of her slumbers to myself untrue I seem,

Methinks we were both dishonoured did I waken her from her dream,

For a woman's sleep is holy, and all men shall own its sway.'

Thus the Walds, who ne'er had feared him, lay still till the dawn of day. 3^

Thus he whom men called the Red Knight, a maiden he left the queen.
Yet surely she deemed in the morning his wife she o'er night had been.
And for love of her lord her tresses she bound with the morning light
As matrons are wont to bind them. And he won him, the gallant knight,
Castles and lands around them from the hand of his maiden bride, 3B5

But her h^art was ere this his guerdon, and in peace did the twain abide.

Thus glad in their love they held them two days till the third nigl^t fell.
And often he thought might he take her to himself it would please him well.
Then he thought of his mother's counsel, and how Gumemanz spake of yore,
That man and wife should as cnehe, and the doubt vexed his soul no more, 390
And his wife did he take unto him — Love's custom ever old.
Yet ever new to lovers, to these twain brought joy untold.

'Twas well, not evil, with them^— Now hear how the'king, their foe,

As he rode in his might to battle, must tidings of evil know.

'Twas a squire who fain had told them, all crimson his spurs with blood ; 395

* Before Pelrapär on the meadow have they foughten those heibes good,

'Twas a bitter strife and knightly ; thy seneschal fell that day,

Kingron, who led thine army, to King Arthur must take his way.

As he in departing bade them lies the army upon the plain.

Pebapär shalt thou find well guarded 'gainst thyself and thine armies twain, 400

There within is a gallant hero, and naught doth he crave but strife ;

In the camp of thy hired soldiers is many a rumour rife,

They say from the good Round Table cometh Ither of Cumberland

To the help of the queen, and knightly and valiant methinks his hand !

'Twas his arms that rode forth for jousting, and no man his deeds shall blame, 405

In such wise hath he borne his armour as winneth him meed of fame.'

Quoth the king to the squire, ' My lady, the queen, she desireth me,
And she and her land so goodly I trow shall my portion be.

Ii6 PARZIVAL

And Kingitm the seneschal told me, and suiely the truth he spake,
4ZO That famine doth plague the city, and peace they ere long most make,
And the queen she her love shall proffer' — His wrath must the squire abide.
Then the king and his host passed onward, and a knight did toward them ride,
And he spared not his horse but spurred it, and told them the self-same tale,
And the king deemed the loss o'er-heavy, and courage and joy must UaL

4x5 Then a prince spake from out the army, * Tho^ Kingron hath valour shown,
Yet never he fought for our manhood, he fought for himself alone.
Now let him to death be stricken— Why then should they be cast down,
Two hosts, this one, and the army that lieth before the town ?'
Then he bade his lord take courage, * Once more will we try our fate,

490 Let them loolcto their arms, the conflict shall be for their strength too great,
We will make an end of their gladness ! Bid thy vassals and kinsmen hear,
With banners twain before them to the town shall they draw anear ;
Down the hill will we ride upon them, but afoot must we storm the gate.
For so shall we work them evil, and victory shall on us wait.'

435 Galogandres, the Duke of Gippones, it was who this counsel gave.
And sorrow he brought on the Burgers — ^but slain was this hero brave,
And slain, too, the brave Count Narant, a prince from Uckerland's shore,
And many another hero whom dead from the field they bore.

Now hear ye another story, how the Burgers would guard their wall.
430 Strong stakes of wood sharp-pointed they made fast in tree-trunks tall ;

(Sore pain thus was wrought the besiegers) and the trunks were made fast
that day

To a rope that by wheel was guided, so they guarded their walls alway.

And all this had they done and tested ere Klamidd would storm the gate

To avenge the fall of Kingron — There had come to their land of late
435 Greek fire, for the ships had brought it that of food brought a goodly store,

And it burnt of the foe the weapons, and the engines of deadly war ;

And battering-ram or tortoise in vain 'gainst the walls were wheeled.

No weapon had they for onslaught but was forced to the flame to yield 1

■

Now Kingron the seneschal journeyed till he came on to Breton ground,
440 In his hunting-house in Briziljan King Arthur at last he found.
And Karmin6l did they call it-— As 'fore Pelrapär he fought,
So at Parzival's word his surety to the maid of Lalande he brought.

KONDWIRAMUR 117

And glad was hit Kunnewaare that, faithful, he mourned her shame
Whom men there knew as the Red Knight, and this knight at his bidding
came.

And soon were the wondrous tidings amid the courtiers spread, 445

f

And he stood there before King Arthur, a gallant knight ill-sped.

Then he spake unto him and his vassals in such wise as he needs must speak,

And Kay was with terror smitten, and crimson it grew, his cheek.

And he spake, * Is it thou, O Kingron? Ah ! many a Breton knight.

Thou seneschal of Klamid^ thy hand hath overthrown in fight ! 450

If thy captor ne'er look upon me with favour, thine office high

Shall turn to thy good ; we are rulers of the caldron, both thou and I,

Of thy wisdom and skill do thou aid me, to win me the favour fair

Of this maiden Kunnewaard, and sweet cates for her board prepare ! '

Nor they asked from him other ransom — Now leave we that tale and hear 455
What had passed since we left the story— So the host to the town drew near,
To Pelrapär came the King Klamidd, and a bitter strife arose.
The inner host strove with the outer, and in sooth were they gallant foes,
Fresh strength had they won and courage, and bravely they held the field ;
And Parzival, lord of the country, in the vanguard he bare his shield. 4^

And he swung aloft his weapon, thro' the hekn clave the blade so keen,
And the knights he o'erthrew before him found a bitter death I ween,
For there, where the corslet opened, the Burgers they pierced them thro',
In such wise would they take their vengeance — this wrought grief to the hero

true.
And Parzival, he forbade them, and they ceased at their lord's command, 4^5
But of living knights full twenty were captive unto their hand.

Yet Parzival well had marked it how the king and his bravest knights

Sought not fame before the portals, but far out in the plain would fight ;

Then forth by a path untrodden the hero a circuit made.

And swiftly he charged where the monarch his banner aloft displayed. . 470

And, see ! there a mighty slaughter the guard of the king befell,

And the shields they were hewn in pieces, the Burgers they fought so well.

And Parzival's shield had vanished 'fore the blows and the sword-blades

keen ;
And tho' little his skill rejoiced them, yet all who the strife had seen.

ii8 PARZIVAL

475 They spoke but to praise his valour— Galogandies the standard bare,
(Well he knew how to wake their courage 1) but dead lay the hero there.
And Klamidd himself stood in peril, and great stress on his army lay ;
Then he bade them withdraw, for the valour of the Burgers had won the day.

But Parzival, gallant hero, bade them treat their captives well
480 Till the dawn of the third day's morning, and fear on his foemen felL

Then the young host, proud and joyful, bade the knights on their oath go free —
^ Good friends, when the word I send ye, then wend your way back to me !'
Their swords and their goodly harness as prisoners they needs must yield ;
Unarmed did they fore from the city to the host on the outer field.

485 ' For sooth,' spake their comrades mocking, 'from wine must ye needs be
red,
Poor souls, since within the city ye have hungered for lack of bread ! '
' Nay ! nay ! ye may spare your pity,' so spake they, the heroes good,
' If ye lie here a whole year longer, within is such store of food,
That by them might ye well be nourished ! And the queen hath the fairest
knight

490 For her husband, that e'er won knighthood, or carried a shield in fight.
He may well be of lofty lineage, for he lacketh no knightly skill I '
And the king needs must hear the tidings, and in sooth did they please him

ill,
And heralds he sent to the city, and he bade them this challenge bear
To him whom the queen had wedded, * If this knight the strife shall dare,

495 And the queen doth hold him worthy herself, and her lands so wide.
To defend in single combat, then in peace may our hosts abide ! '

And Parzival he was joyful at the message the heralds bare,
And his heart was fain for the combat ; and out spake the hero fair,
' Now I pledge me upon mine honour that no man within this wall
500 Shall lift his hand for my peril, a/i^i»^ will I stand or fall !'

So betwixt the moat and the meadow a truce did they swear that day,
And those smiths of battle armed them as meet for the coming fray.

On a gallant war-horse arm^d sat the King of Brandigan,
Twas hight Guverjon— This charger with many a gallant man,

KONDWIRAMUR 119

And many a goodly present, from Gringorz his nephew, king 505

Of Ipotente did Count Narant from the north o'er the deep seas bring.
And therewith were a thousand footmen, well armed save no shield had they ;
(If the tale speaketh true to the third year the king had made good their

pay.)
And Gringorz sent him knights üve hundred, each one with his helm on

head,
And skilled were they all in battle ; with Klamidd th^ hither sped. 510

And thus had the mighty army, alike both by sea and land,
Encirclec^ the town of Pelrapär, and great need must its folk withstand !

Forth rode Parzival from the city to the field that should aye declare
If 'twas God's will his wife to leave him, the child of King Tampentäre.
Proudly he rode, yet he spurred not his steed to its swktest flight, S^S

And 'twas armed for need, and its covering was a samite of red so bright.
And the iron lay beneath it — And the hero himself shone fair
In his harness red, red his corslet, and the shield that he proudly bare.
And Klamid^ began the conflict — A short spear of wood unwrought.
With that would he fell his foeman, and the joust from afar he sought ; 520

And Gnveijorz sprang forth swiftly, and the joust it was ridden well
By those heroes young and beardless, nor one from his saddle fell.
And never a horse or a rider had foughten a better fight ;
And the steam rose in clouds from the chargers on which sat each gallant
knight,

And so fierce was the fight that the horses, out-wearied with conflict sore, 5^5
Stumbled and fell together, in sooth could they do no more.
And joyful they smote, the heroes, till fire from the helm must spring.
Small time had they there for leisure, but zeal to their task must bring ;
And the shields were hewn in pieces, and the splinters were tossed gn

high,
As shuttlecocks gaily smitten to the winds of heaven fly. 530

Yet Gamuret's son was unwearied, and never a limb did ache,
Tho' Klamid^ deemed that the foemen from the city the truce would break.
Then he bade his fellow-foeman to look to his honour well.
And stay the hand of the slingers, for the blows heavy on him fell
As of stones shot forth from an engine — But Parzival made reply, 535

^ Nay, safe art thou firom the slingers, my word is thy surety,

I20 PARZIVAL

Thou hast peace from mine hand, and I swear thee that never a sling shall

break
Heady or breast, or thigh, thou art safe here, were it but for mine honour's

sake!'

All too soon was Klamid^ wearied and spent with the deadly fight,
540 Who was victor, and who was vanquished, ere long might be seen aright,
And they looked on the King Klamid^, on the grass was he laid alow,
And Parzival's right hand gripped him till forth streamed the crimson flow
Of blood from the ears and nostrils, and the green turf was dyed with red ;
And his foeman unbound the helmet and visor, and bared his head,
545 The vanquished would face the death-blow, and the victor spake, ' Here I
free *

My wife for aye from thy wooing ! Learn thou what Death may be ! '

* Nay ! nay ! thou gallant hero, thirty-fold doth thy glory grow

Thro' the valour thine hand hath shown here, since in strife thou hast laid

me low.
What higher fame dost thoii look for ? Kondwiramur sure shall say

550 That Good Fortune hath smiled upon thee, whilst / am Misfortune's prey/
Thy land hast thou now delivered — As when one a leaking boat
Doth free from the load of water, that it light o*er the waves may float,
So lightened am I of honour ! Manly honour and joy I trow
Are waxen thin and faded, what profit to slay me now ?

555 From children and children's children mine heritage shall be shame.

To do more here methinks were needless — For joy thou hast won and fame.
And a living death is my portion, since for ever from herT part,
Who fast in love's magic fetters hath held me both mind and heart,
Little good it forsooth hath brought me, ah 1 most wretched henceforth am I,

5^ And this land and its lovely lady for aye in thy power shall lie ! '

Now he who was here the victor on Gurnemanz' counsel thought,

How mercy should well beseem him who with manhood had valiant fought.,

And he thought him the rede to follow ; and thus to the king he spake,

* I free thee not, to the father of Liass^ submission make 1 '

5^5 ^ Nay, Sir Knight, I have wrought him evil, 'twas thro' me that his son was
slain,
An ill-fate wouldst thou bring upon me ! The hand of thy queen to gain.

KONDWIRAMUR 121

With Schenteflur I battled, and in sooth had I died that day,
Save that Kingron came to my succour, and his hand did the hero slay.
For Gumemanz of Graharz had sent him to Brobarz* land
At the head of a gallant army ; 'twas a fair and knightly band, 570

Nine hundred knights who fought well, and rode upon mail-clad steeds,
And fifteen hundred footmen all armed for valiant deeds,
For naught but shields should foil them — ^Too great their might I thought.
But the seed of such goodly harvest once more their country sought.
Yet now hath my loss been greater ! Of my heroes but few are left, 575

What more would thine hand take from me, who of gladness am now
bereft?»

* An easier way I '11 show thee, to Brittany shalt thou ride,

Kingron has gone before thee, there King Arthur he doth abide,

To him shalt thou bear my greeting, and bid him to mourn alway

The shame I bare as my portion when I rode from his court away. 5^

A maiden who smiled upon me for my sake was smitten sore-r-

Of all that in life e'er grieved me naught ever hath grieved me more !

And that maid shalt thou tell of my sorrow ; and thy pledge to her hand

shalt yield,
And do even as she shall bid thee — Or die here on this foughten field ! '

' So, if here I must choose betwixt them, not long shall my choice delay,' S^S
Soake the King of Brandigan swiftly, * From hence will I ride straightway ! '
But his oath did he swear ere he parted whom pride had in peril brought.
Then Parzival, the hero, for his wearied charger sought,
And his foot touched nor horse nor stirrup as he light to the saddle sprung,
And his steed the hewn shields' splinters around him in circles flung. 59^

•

And the Burgers I ween were joyful — ^but their foemen were sad and sore.
For flesh and bone were wearied, and sorrow of heart they bore.
And they brought King Klamid^ wounded to those who might give him aid,
And the dead on the bier they bare them, and to rest in the grave they laid.
From many a guest unwelcome the land at last was freed, 595

And the gallant King Klamidd to Lover he rode with speed.

Now it fell at this time King Arthur and the knights of the Table Round,
And many another hero, at Dianasdron were found.

laa PARZIVAL

And in sooth no lie I tell ye when l say that this plain so good

600 Bare of tent-poles a greater number than the trees in Spessart's wood.
For 'twas ever the wont of King Arthur the high feast of Pentecost
To keep with his knights and vassals, and of maidens a goodly host
There were many a noble banner, and many a warlike shield
With coat of arms emblazoned, and fair tents stood adown the field ;

^S Twould be thought of the world a marvel, who should make all the travelling

gear m

For such wondrous host of ladies as those that were gathered here I
And I think me that never a maiden but had counted it to her shame
If no knight mid the knights around her she might as her lover claim !
Came I myself to such gathering, an such youthful knights were there,

610 I were loth if my wife beside me thro' such tumult were fain to fare —
(Nay, when folk thus come together far liefer were I away)
May be one might speak unto her, and some such words would say—
* With love of her was he smitten, and ne'er might he healing know
Save that she herself should heal him. Yea, an but her will were so,

615 Her knight would he be for ever, to serve her his whole life long' ^

I were swift, with my wife beside me, to flee from such foolish throng!

Yet enough of myself have I spoken — Now hear how King Arthur's tent
Might be known apart from the others ; before it on gladness bent
He feasted, the king, with his vassals whose hearts never falsehood knew,
690 And with many a stately maiddi, whose thoughts aye to jousting flew,
As if with darts they sported, and their friend 'gainst the foe would aim.
And if ill befell their hero with sweet words to his aid they came.

Then the youthful King Klamid^ in the ring would he bridle draw ;
His steel-clad limbs and charger the wife of King Arthur saw, ^

^5 His helmet and good shield cloven her maidens they saw right well— I

So he came to the court, (who had sent him small need have I here to tell.)
So sprang he adown from his charger, and they thronged him on either

hand
Ere he came where she sat whom he sought for, Kunnewaar6 of foir Lalande.

And he spake, ' Art thou she, O Lady, to whom I owe service fiur ? ^

630 (Yet need doth in part constrain me) from the Red Knight I greeting bear,

KONDWIRAMUR 123

He willeth to take upon him the shame that thy lot hath been ;
He prays that King Arthur mourn it — Thou wast smitten for him I ween^i
Here, Lady, my pledge I bring thee, so my victor hath bidden me.
Else my body to death were forfeit — I will do here as pleaseth thee 1 '

Then the maiden Kunnewaard by his hand led the gallant knight 635

Where Queen Guinevere was seated, she ate with her maidens bright ;
And Kay uprose from the table as the tidings he neods must hear,
They brought gladness to Kunnewaar^, but to Kay had they wrought but
fear.

And he quoth, ' What he speaketh, Lady, who thus unto thee hath sped
He speaketh perforce, yet I think me he greatly hath been misled ! 640

I thought but to teach thee better» yet for this cause thou hatest me !
Now bid thou this knight disarm him, for his standing o'er-long shall be.'

Then she bade him put off his helmet and visor, the maiden true.

And e'en as the bands were loosened Klamid^ the king they knew,

And Kingron he looked upon him, and he saw his lord again, 645

And he wrung his hands in his anguish till as dry twigs they cracked amain.

Then the seneschal of Klamidd, from the table he sprung straightway.

And he asked of his lord the tidings ; and joyless was he that day.

For he spake, * I am bom to sorrow ; I have lost such a gallant host.

No roan that was bom of woman, I think me shall more have lost. 650

And the load of such bitter sorrow lieth heavy upon my breast,

And joy is to me a stranger, and gladness a fleeting guest I

And grey am I grown for the anguish she hath wrought me, Kondwiramur, —

Yea, the sorrow of Pontius Pilate, and false Judas who evermore

Must grieve for his faithless dealings, who did Christ unto death betray, 655

What of punishment God layeth on them that woe would I bear alway —

If so be that the Lady of Brobarz were my wife of goodwill and free,

And mine arms held her fast, I had recked not what hereafter should

chance to me.
But, alas ! for her love is withholden from the raler of Iserterre,
And my land and my folk henceforward for her sake shall sorrow bear. 660
Mine uncle's son, Mabonagrein, for her love long hath suffered pain ;
And by knightly hand constraint in thy court I, O king, draw rein !

124 PARZIVAL

And well dost thou know in my kingdom much hann have I done to thee.
Forget that, true knight and faithful, from thy hate do thou set me free
^5 Since here I abide, a captive — ^And this maiden my life shall shield.

Since I stand in her sight, her servant, and my pledge to her hand would

yield!'
Then of knightly heart King Arthur forgave him as he would pray,
And with foithfiil words, and kindly, showed ftivour to him that day.

Far and wide did they tell the tidings how the King of Brandigan
^ Rode hither, and man and maiden in thronging crowds they ran.

Then the king he would crave a comrade, and he spake out with joyless mien,
' Commend me unto Sir Gawain, if thou deemest me worth, O Queen !
Well I know that he would desire it, and if he thy word obey,
Then he honoureth thee, and the Red Knight shall win praise at his hand
to-day.'
^5 Then King Arthur he bade his nephew deal well with the captive king,
(Tho' I wot well, without his bidding. Sir Gawsun had done this thing.)
And the conquered knight, in whose dealings no falsehood had part or share.
From the vassals and gallant heroes won a welcome both fit and fair.

Then Kingron he spake in sorrow, * Alas ! tnat I needs must see
68o The day when in Breton dwellings my king shall a captive be !

For richer wert thou than Arthur, and of vassals a greater host

Hath served thee, nor strength was lacking, and of youth canst thou make
thy boast.

Shall men count it to Arthur's honour that Kay in his wrath did smite

A princess whose heart hath shown her the wisdom to choose aright,
685 And smile upon one whom henceforward all men may with truth proclaim

Elect to the highest honour and crown of true knightly fame ?

The tree of their ^me these Bretons may deem to have waxen high ;

Dead lay Cumberland's king, but I wot well he by no deed of theirs must die !

Nor the fame shall be theirs that, my master, thou didst yield to that self-
same knight,
690 Or that I myself have been vanquished in fair and open fight ;

And the sparks sprang bright from our helmets, and our swords clave the
whistling air

As for life and death we battled, and men looked on our combat fair.'

KONDWIKAMUR 125

Then all at the good Round Table, both rich and poor alike,
With one voice spake that Kay did evil when a maiden he thought to strike.
But now will we leave their story, and fare back unto Pelrapär ^5

Where Parzival reigned as monarch ; the waste lands were builded fair.
And joy was their lot and singing, (and red gold and jewels bright
King Tampentäre left in the city where awhile he had reigned in might)
Then rich gifts he gave till men loved him for his knightly hand and free ;
New shields and costly banners the pride of his land should be, 700

And many a joust and Tourney did he andliis heroes ride.
And e'6n on the distant borders in gallant deeds he vied,
That hero young and dauntless, and no foeman might e'ef deny
That on battle-field or in Tourney his hand won the victory.

And now of the queen would I tell ye — What lot might ye hold so fair 705

As hers, that gentle lady ? In earth's joys had she fullest share.

Her love it might bud and blossom, nor weakness nor wavering show.

For the worth of her lord and husband her heart scarce might iail to know.

And each found their life in the other, and each was the other's love.

I^ as saith the tale, they were parted, what grief must each true heart move ! 710

And I mourn for that gentle lady, her body, her folk, her land,

(So he won of her love the guerdon) had he freed with his strong right hand.

Thus courteous he spake one moming(and theknights stood their lord beside),

* Lady, an it so please thee, give me leave that I hence may ride

And see how my mother fareth, if weal be her lot, or woe, 7^5

For naught of all that befalls her methinks I for long may know.

For a short space would I go thither ; and if ventures my skill approve

Therewith would I do thee service, and be worthy my lad/s love.'

Thus he spake, and the story telleth she thought not to say him ' Nay,'

For she deemed it well ; from his vassals all lonely he took his way. 7^

BOOK V

ANFORTAS

ARGUMENT

Book V. tells of the wonderful adventure of the Grail Castle; how
Parzival met with the Fisher King, and became his guest ; and of the great
feast in the hall of Monsalväsch. How Parzival saw the bleeding spear,
and all the marvels of the Grail, and how he asked no question. How he
in the morning found the palace deserted, and was mocked by the squire
as he rode a>vay. Of Partival*s meeting with Sigun^, and how she
reproached him for his silence. Of Orilus and Jeschui6; of the fight
between the heroes ; and of Parzival's oath. How Orilus and his wife were
made friends again, and of their welcome at the court of King Arthur.

BOOK V
ANFORTAS

»OW he who would hear what befell him who thus for ventures
sought,
Shall hearken many a marvel ere the tale to an end be wrought
Let the son of Gamuret ride forth, and uU ye good folk and
true
Wish him well, for bitter sorrow this hero hereafter knew,
Tho' honour and joy should crown him— And sorely his heart did grieve 5
That the wife he loved so dearly he now for a space must leave.
For the mouth never read of woman, and never hath tale been told
Of a fairer wife and truer, and his heart did she captive hold,
And his spirit so high was troubled by thoughts of his wife and queen —
Had courage not been his birthright he had lost it ere this, I ween ! lo

O'er rock and marshy moorland, with loosened reins the steed

Dashed free, the rider thought not to guide or check its speed.

Of a truth the venture telleth, so far did he ride that day

E'en a bird had been outwearied, and its flight were fain to stay.

An the tale hath not betrayed me, no further the knight did fare 15

When Ither he slew, or from Graharz rode swift unto Pelrapär.

Now hear ye what chanced unto him ; he came at the close of day
To a water fair, and upon it many boats at anchor lay,
And the fishers were lords of the water ; to the shore did they lie so near
That e'en as they saw him riding his question they well might hear. «20

And one he saw in a vessel all clad in such royal pride
Scarce richer had been his vesture were he lord of the world so wide ;
VOL. L I

jy} PARZIVAL

Of peacock's plumes his head-gear — ^Then the knight to the Fisher spake
And he prayed him for knighthood's bidding, and he prayed him for God's
dear sake,
35 To help him onto, a shelter where he might thro' the night hours rest.
And the Fisher sad he answered in this wise the stranger guest ;

And he quoth,. ' Nay, Sir Knight, I know not for full thirty miles around,
By land alike or water, where dwelling may yet be found
Save one house, I would bid thee seek it, for it lieth in sooth anear,
30 Thro* the livelong day wert thou riding none other thou findest here.

•

Ride th^re to the high clifTs ending, then turn thee to thy right hand
Until to the moat thou comest, and thy charger perforce must stand ;
Then bid thou the castle warder to let the drawbridge fall
And open to thee the portals, then ride thou unto the hall'

35 Then he did as the Fisher bade him, and leave would he courteous pray,
But he quoth, ' I myself will thine host be, an thou fail not to find the way,
Be thy thanks then as is our tendance — ^As thou ridest around the hill
Have a care lest the wood mislead thee, such mischance would but please
me ilL'

Then Parzival turned his bridle, and gaily he took his way,
40 Nor missed he the path till before him the moat of the castle lay ;

And the drawbridge was raised, and the fortress it lacked not for strength
Itrdw,

As a turner with skill had vijought them stood the turrets in goodly row.

But with wings, or on winds of heaven uplifted, might ye have won

To that Burg, an a foeman stormed it little harm he methinks had done.
45 And so strong were the towers and the palace that its folk they had held the
hall

And mocked at the foe, if all armies thirty years long beset the wall.

Then a squire looked forth from the castle, of the knight was he well aware,
And he asked whence he came? and wherefore he thought to their Burg to fare?
And Parzival spake, *'Tis the Fisher who hath bidden me ride to thee,
50 With all courtesy have I thanked him for the sfielter he proffered free,
Tis his will that the bridge be lowered, and I ride here the Burg within.'
' Sir Knight thou shalt here be welcome, and thy way to the Burg shalt win

ANFORTAS . 131

Since the Fisher so spake — And honour would we shew unto thee his guest ! '
Then the squire he let fall the drawbridge, for so was their lord's behest.

So the hero came to the fortress, to a courtyard so broad and wide, 55

By knightly sports untrodden— Nor oft would they Tourneys ride,
(By short green turf was it covered) and but seldom with banners bright
As on Abenberg's field did they ride there, as fitting for gallant knight.
'Twas long since they might disport them in such pastimes of warlike skill,
For sorrow lay heavy on them, and mirth it beseemed them ill. 60

But little the guest should rue that, for knights both old and young,

rhey welcomed him with all honour, and swift to his bridle sprung.

And pages of noble breeding laid their hands on his bridle rein.

And others would hold his stirrup as the knight to dismount was fain.

And the knights they prayed him enter, and they led him where he might rest, 65

And with ready hands and skilful of his armour they freed the guest.

And they looked on the beardless hero, and they saw his face so fair,

And they spake, of a truth Good Fortune and blessing should be his share.

Then he bade them to bring him water, and the rust-stains he washed away
From face and hands, and they saw him as the light of a second day, 70

So he sat in all eyes lovely— Then a mantle rich they brought
Of silk of Araby fashioned, and flaw therein was there naught ;
And he laid it around his shoulder, that hero so fair and bright,
But the clasp did he leave unfastened, and with one voice they praised the
knight.

' Repanse de Schoie, our lady and queen, did this mantle bear,' 75

Quoth the chamberlain, *She hath lent it while fit robes they for thee

prepare.
And I feared not this boon to ask her since it seemeth sure to me
That a gallant man and faithful, Sir Knight, thou shalt prove to be ! '
* God reward thee who lookest on me with such true and trusting heart,
Methinks, an thou seest rightly, Good Fortune shall be my part, 80

Yet I wot well such gifts come only from the oower of God on high.'
Then gladly they pledged the hero, and in honour and loyalty
They who sorrowed with him were joyful ; far more had they there, I ween,
Than at Pelrapär, when his right hand their shelter from grief had been !

132 PARZIVAL

85 Then sadly he thoughti as his harness the squires on one side would bear.
That in knightly joust and Tourney he here might find little share.
Then one to the host would call him, and fast came his words and free,
And boldly he spake to the stranger, yea, e'en as in wrath might be.
With his life had he nigh paid forfeit to Parzival's youthful pride,

90 For he laid his hand to his sword-hilt— When he found it not by his side
Then he clenched his fist so tightly that the clasp rOng the blood-drops red
From beneath his nails, and crimson to the sleeve of his robe they spread.

' Nay, nay,' quoth the knights, ' be not wrathful, for fain would he make us

smile.
He hath licence to jest, and with jesting our sadness would he beguile
95 Show thy courtesy here towards him, nor be wroth for a foolish word.
That the Fisher hath come to the castle, naught else shalt thou here have

heard.
Now do thou to our lord betake thee, here art thou an honoured guest,
And the load of thy heavy anger be banished from off thy breast'

To the palace hall they gat them, where a hundred crowns hung low
100 With many a taper laden ; round the walls shone the tapers^glow.
And beneath stood a hundred couches, with a hundred cushions friir.
And each of these goodly couches four knights should between them share.
And betwixt each twain of the couches an open space was found,
And before each there lay a carpet of cunning work üishioned round,
los Thereto had he wealth in plenty, King Frimutd's son and heir :

And one thing had they not forgotten, nor their gold did they think to

spare.
For within the hall were builded three hearths of marble rare.
With skill and wisdom feshioned, and each hearth stood four-square.
And the wood was Lignum aloe, and so great a fire, I ween,
1 10 Ne'er hath burnt on the hearth at Wildberg-^Suchthings haveaye costly been.

And the host had bid them lay him on a costly folding bed
Tore the central hearth ; and gladness frx>m before his face had fied,
And his life was but a dying— Parzival the hero fair
In the hall found kindly welcome from him who had sent him there.
ITS Then his host bade him stand no longer, but be seated his couch anear,
* Yea, here by my side, didst thou seat thee yet further from me, I fear

ANFORTAS 133

'Twere treating thee as a stranger' — In this wise to his gallant guest
Spake the host thus rich in sorrow, whose heart was by grief opprest.

And the host he craved thro' his sickness great fires, and warm robes would

wear
Both wide and long, and with sable were they lined and garnished fair. lao

And the poorest skin was costly, and black was its hue and grey ;
And a cap of the self-same fashioned he wore on his head that day,
'Twas within and without of sable, with bands of Arabian gold
Wrought around, and a flashing ruby in the centre might all behold.

Now many brave knights they sat there, and grief passed their face before, 125
For a squire sprang swift thro' the doorway, and a lance in his hand he bore,
(And thus did he wake their weeping) from the point did the blood run fast
Adown to the hand of the holder till 'twas lost in his sleeve at last.
And then thro' the lofty palace was weeping and wailing sore.
The folk of thirty kingdoms could scarce have bemoaned them more. 130

And thus to each of the four walls with the lance in his hand he drew,
Till he reached once again the doorway, and passed him the portal thro'.
And stilled was the lamentation, and the grief that this folk must know
When the squire bare the lance before them, and thus bade them to think
on woe.

(An here ye be not outwearied I gladly would tell the tale, 135

How the feast in this Burg was ordered, for in courtesy naught did fail.)

At the end of the hall a doorway of steel did they open fair.

And two noble children .entered — Now hearken what guise they bare,

An a knight for love would serve them, with love they his task might pay,

Two fair and gracious maidens as e'er man might woo were they. '4o

And each wore on her hair loose flowing, a chaplet of blossoms bound

With silken band, beneath it their tresses sought the ground.

And the hand of each maiden carried a candlestick all of gold,

And every golden socket did a burning taper hold.

Nor would I forget the raiment these gentle maidens ware, '45

For one was Tenabroc's countess, ruddy-brown was her robe so fair,

And the self-same garb wore the maiden who beside the countess paced,

And with girdles rich and costly were they girt round each slender waist.

134 PARZIVAL

And behind them there came a Duchess and her fellow ; of ivory white
150 Two stools they bare, and glowing their lips e*en as fire is bright

Then they bowed, the four, and bending, the stools 'fore the host they laid.
Nor was aught to their service lacking, but fitly their part they played.
Then they- stood all four together, and their faces were fair to see.
And the vesture of each h,iT maiden was like to the other three.

155 Now see how they followed swiftly, fair maidens twice told four.
And this was I ween their office, four tapers tall they bore ;
Nor the others deemed too heavy the weight of a precious stone,
And by day the sun shone thro' it, and as Jacinth its name is known.
'Twas long and broad, and for lightness had they fashioned it fair and meet

i6o To serve at will for a table where a wealthy host might eat

And straight to the host they stepped them, and they bowed their fair

heads low,
And four laid the costly table on the ivory white as snow.
The stools they had placed aforetime — and courteous they turned aside.
And there by their four companions stood the eight in their maiden pride.

165 And green were the robes of these maidens, green as grass in the month
of May,
Of Saipite in Assagog woven, and long and wide were they.
At the waist were they girt with a girdle, narrow, and long, and fair,
And each of these gentle maidens ware a wreath on her shining hair.

Now Iwan, the Count of Nonel, and Jemis, the lord of Reil,
170 To the Grail were their daughters summoned from many a distant mile.
And they came, these two princesses, in raiment wondrous fair.
And two keen-edged knives, a marvel, on cloths did those maidens bear.
Of silver white and shining were they wrought with such cunning skill,
And so sharp, that methinks their edges e'en steel might they cut at will.
175 And maidens four went before them, for this should their office be
To bear lights before the silver ; four children from falsehood free.
Six maidens in all they entered and took thro' the hall their way.
Now hearken, and I will tell ye the service they did that day.

They bowed, and the twain who carried the silver they laid it low
180 On the Jacinth, and courteous turning to the first twelve in order go.

ANFQRTAS 135

And now, have I counted rightly, here shall eighteen maidens stand ;
And lo ! see six more come hither in vesture from distant lands.
Half their robes were of silk, gold inwoven, half of silk of Nineveh bright,
For both they and the six before them, parti*coloured their robes of light.

And last of those maids a maiden, o'er the others was she the queen, 185

So fair her &ce that they thought them 'twas the morning's dawn, I ween !

And they saw her clad in raiment of Pfeliel of Araby,

And she bare aloft on a cushion of verdant Achmardi

Root and blossom of Paradise garden, that thing which men call ' The Grail,'

The crown of all earthly wishes, fair fulness that ne'er shall fail ! 190

Repanse de Schoie did they call her, in whose hands the Grail mi^ht lie,

By the Grail Itself elected was she to this office high.

And they who would here do service, those maids must be pure of heart,

And true in life, nor falsehood shall have in their dealings part.

And lights both rare and costly before the Grail they bore 195

Six glasses tall, transparent — and wondrous balsam's store

Burnt within with a strange sweet perfume ; with measured stq>s they came.

And the queen bowed low with the maidens who bare the balsam's flame.

Then this maiden free from falsehood, the Grail on the Jacinth laid.

And Parzival looked upon her, and thought of the royal maid ^^

Elect to such high office, whose mantle he needs must wear.

Then the seven courteous turned them to the eighteen maidens fair.

And the noblest they placed in the centre, and twelve on either side

They stood, but the crowned maiden no beauty with hers had vied !

And as many knights as were seated around that palace hall, 205

So to each four was there a server, with golden beaker tall.

And a page so fair to look on who bare a napkin white —

Riches enow, I trow me, had ye seen in the hall that night !

And they bare there a hundred tables, at each table four knights would eat,

And swiftly they spread them over with coverings fair and meet 210

The host himself took water, and heavy at heart was he.
And Parzival, too, he washed him, for so should the custom be.
A silken towel, bright coloured, a count's son would proffer fair.
Swift to the guest he gat him, and knelt low before him there.

IS6 PARZIVAL

915 And wherever there stood a uble there four squires were ready dight
To serve the four who sat there, and their service they knew aright,
For twain would carve, low kneeling, and twain to the knights would bear
Of food and drink as needful, and thus for their wants would care.

Now hearken ye greater riches^on wheelM cars were rolled
9S0 To every knight in order, fair vessels of wroughten gold,

And four knights set them on the tables, and with each ye a steward might

J

To aid them, and claim the vessels when the feast at an end should be.

Now hearken another marvel — ^to a hundred squires they spake,

And they bade them in fair white napkins the bread from the Grail to take.

^S And straightway they went, and to each knight at each table the bread they
bare;
As I heard so I tell unto ye, and the truth ye, each one, shall swear,
^ 'Twas the Grail Itself that fed them, and before the Grail did stand
What of food or drink desiring, each one might stretch forth his hand.
(Would I here betray another then in sooth ye shall lie with me)

330 Food warm or cold, or dishes that known or unknown shall be.
Food wild or tame — Such riches ye never on earth shall find,
So many have said, yet I think me that folly doth rule their mind —
For the Grail was the crown of blessing, the fulness of earth's delight.
And Its joys I right well may liken to the glories of Heaven's height !

335 Then they brought in small golden vessels that which every man should need
Of sauces, or salt, or pepper — would one sparely or fully feed.
Yet each found enough — and courteous they bare to each noble guest ;
And red wine and sweet drinks luscious, each one as he liked him best
Might speak the word, and proffer the cup, and behold ! 'twas filled

340 By the power of the Grail — Thus the hunger of that gallant host was stilled,
And the Grail Itself sustained them, and Parzival wondering saw
The riches and mighty marvels, yet to question his host forbore.

And he thought, ' Gumemanz he bade me, in truth, without thought of guile,
To withhold my lips from question — If here I abide awhile
245 Methinks it will then befall me as aforetime in Graharz land.

They will tell me, without my question, how here with this folk it stands.'

^ ANFORTAS 137

Then e'en as he sat thus musing came a squire who a sword did bear.
And its sheath was a thousand marks' worth, and its hilt was a ruby rare,
And the blade, it might well work wonders— Then the host gave it to the

knight,
And he spake, ' I full oft have borne it in many a deadly fight 250

Ere God's Hand thus sorely smote me ; now with this shalt thou be repaid
If aught hath in care been lacking — Henceforth shalt thou bear this blade
■ Whatever chance befall thee, and when thou its power hast tried
Thou wilt know thou art fully armM, whatever strife betide.'

Ah ! woe to the guest that asked not, I am sorrowful for his sake, 955

When his hand clasped the sword 'twas a token that his silence he well

might break.
For the host too my heart is heavy, thus tortured by nameless woe,
And a question therefrom had freed him, yet to question his guest was

slow.

h But now the feast was ended, who the vessels hither bore

Again to their task they turn them, and they bear them forth once more. ^^
The cars again they circle ; each maid to her task was fain
,Fn>m last to first ; the noblest she turned to the Grail again,
To host and guest all-courteous the queen and her maidens bend.
What they brought they once more would bear forth thro' the door at the
high hall's end.

And Parzival he gazed after, and lo ! thro' the open door 365

Within an outer chamber, on a folding couch he saw
The fairest of old men ancient whom ever his eyes had seen,
^ Grey was he as mists of morning— Nor o'er rash is the tale, I ween,
Who he was shalt thou know hereafter, when a fitting time shall be,
The host, his Burg, and his kingdom, yea, all will I name to ye, 370

And all shall be clear and in order, no halting my tale shall know ;
Methinks that I then shall show yc the bowstring without the bow.

'Tis a symbol good, the bowstring, for swift as ye deem the bow.
Yet the shaft that the bowstring speedeth findeth swifter its aim, I trow !
m And not without thought I said it, for the string, it seemeth me, 375

Is like to the simple story wherewith men well-pleased shaU be ;

138 PARZIVAL .

For it goeth straight to its ending, while he who aside shall stray,

Tho' his goal at last he reacheth findeth all too long his way.

When unbent the bow thou sawest, then straight was, I ween, the string,
380 From the straight line thou erst must draw it, ere the shaft to its goal may
wing.

But he who his story aimeth at the ear ot a fool shall find

His shaft go astray, for no dwelling it findeth within his mind.

Too wide is the road, I think me, and that which he chance to hear I

Ere yet he may know the meaning flies out at the other ear.
985 Far rather at home I Id bide me than in such ears my story tell,

A beast, or a stock, I think me, as a hearer would serve as well.

But further I fain would tell ye of this people so full of woe
To whom he had come, our hero, glad song might they seldom know,
Or sound of dance or of Tourney ; so heavy were they at heart
390 That never a thought of gladness might find in their life a part,
And oft shall the folk be fewer yet of joy shall have fuller share,
But here every nook was crowded, nor space in the court to spare. c

The host to his guest spake kindly, ' Methinks they thy couch have spread,
Art thou weary? then list my counsel, and get thee, my guest, to bed.'
295 (Now here might I raise my war-cry at the parting betwixt the twain,
For I wot well that bitter sorrow each must from the venture gain.)

To the side of his host he stepped him, Parzival the fair of face,

And the Fisher a fair night wished him — Then the knights stepped each

from his place,
And a part drew near towards him, and they led the stranger guest
300 Straightway to a sleeping chamber, and goodly should be his rest.

'Twas richly decked for his honour, and the couch it was spread so fair ^

That my poverty sorely grieves me since the earth doth such riches bear.

And that bed knew, I ween, no lacking, and a rich silk above it lay,
Bright-coloured its hue, and glowing as tho' fire-light did on it play ;
305 Then Parzival prayed the heroes to get them again to rest.

For he saw there but one couch only, and they passed hence at his behest.

But he lacked not for other service— His fair face and tapers light ^

Gave challenge unto each other—What day e'er might shine so bright.'

ANFORTAS 139

And before his couch was another, thereon would he take his seat

While pages drew them nearer, and proffered him service meet. 3«>

And they bared his white feet comely, and they laid his robes aside,

And of noble birth were these children, and fair in their youthful pride«

Then there passed thro' the open doorway four maidens fair and bright,

They would know if they well had served him, and if soft lay the stranger

knight
And so the venture telleth, a squire a taper ba«« 315

Before each gentle maiden — Parzival, that hero fair.
Sprang swift to his couch ; then the maidens with gentle voice they spake,
'Sir Knight, we fain would pray thee for our sake awhile to wake'—
Yet as children sport with each other had he hidden him from their sight
Ere yet they might hear his greeting, yet their eyes had found swift delight, 3^0
And their heart's desire was quickened at the sight of his- red lips' glow
That for youth were as yet unhidden, for no hair did upon them grow.

Now hear what they bare, these maidens, three in their hands so white

Brought syrups sweet, and red wine, and the fourth, that maiden bright.

Bare fruit that e'erwhiie had ripened in the garden of Paradise 325

On a cloth fair and white, and she knelt low before him that maiden wise,

And he bade her sit, but she answered, ' Nay, Sir Knight, so is it best

For else were I sure unworthy to serve such a gallant guest.'

Then he drank and would eat a little, and he spake to them soft and sweet,

And he laid him adown, and the maidens craved leave of him as was 330

meet
Then down on the costly carpet the squires set the tapers bright
When they saw that he slept, and swiftly they gat from the gallant knight

Yet Parzival lay not lonely, for until the dawn of day

Heart-sorrow would lie beside him, nor passed with the dawn away.

And every coming anguish its heralds before would speed, 335

E'en so that t&e fair youth's vision out-weighed e'en his mother's need

When she dreamed ere the death of her husband. As a carpet unrolled

his dream.
The centre of fair jousts woven, while the edge was with swords agleam.
And in slumber his foemen pressed him, and would swiftly upon him

ride ;
So fearful his dream that, wakened, thirty times had he rather died. 340

I40 PARZIVAL

Thus fear and unrest awoke him, and the sweat streamed from every

limb;
The daylight shone fair thro' the windows, yet no voice had called on him.
Then he spake, ' Where are now the pages, who stood before me of late ?
Who shall hand unto me my garments ?'. Then awhile would he patient wait
345 Till slumber again overcame him ; none spake, none aloud would cry,
Vanished the folk — When he wakened the noon-tide sun was high.

Then he sprang up, and lo ! before him on the carpet his harness lay,
And two swords, his host's gift, and the other from Prince Ither he bare

away.
Then he spake to himself, ' Now wherefore was this done ? I these arms
will take,

350 In sleep I such anguish sufiered, methinks that I surely wake

To-day to some task. of knighthood — If mine host doth some foeman fear
Then his will will I do right gladly, and iaithful her prayer will hear
Who of true heart this mantle lent me — If my service she think to take
Then I were for such service joyful ; yet not for her sweet love's sake,

355 For my wife hath a face as lovely as ever this castle's queen,
Nay more, an the truth be spoken she is fairer far I ween ! '

Then he did e'en as seemed him fitting, and he armed himself for fight
From foot to head, and beside him he girded those swords of might.
Then forth went the gallant hero, and his steed to the palace stair
3^ Was bound, shield and spear stood by it, and he joyed as he found them there.

Then ere Parzival, the hero, his charger would mount again.
He sought thro' many a chamber, and he called on the folk amain,
But none might he see or hearken, and it vexed the knight full sore.
And wrathful he grew — ^Yet seeking, the hero he came once more
365 To where he at eve dismounted when first he the castle found,

And the earth and grass were trampled, and the dew brushed from off the
ground.

Then, shouting, he tunied, the young knight, once more to his charger good.
And with bitter words he mounted — ^Wide open the gateway stood,
And the track led across the threshold ; nor longer he thought to stay
370 But he turned his rein, and swiftly to the drawbridge he made his way,

ANFORTAS 141

But a hidden hand dre% the rope taut, and the forepart it rose on high
And well-nigh had his charger fidlen, then he tumedhim right speedily
For fain would he ask the meaning, but the squire cried aloud in scorn,
* Goose that thou art, ride onward, to the sun's hate hast thou been bom !
Thy mouth hadst thou thought to open, of these wonders hadst asked thine 37S

host,
Great lame had been thine — But I tell thee now hast thou this fair chance

lost!*

Then the guest cried aloud for his meaning, but answer he ne'er might win,
For the squire made as if he slumbered, and the portal he barred within.
Too early for peace his parting, and the hour it hath brought him woe,
And he payeth in joy the tribute, nor longer may gladness know ; 3^

And doubled the throw of sorrow since here he had found the Grail,
With his eyes, not his hand, had he cast it, and dice to the throw should fail.
If by grief he be now awakened such was never his wont of yore,
For naught had he known but gladness, nor sorrow of heart he bore.

On the track that he saw before him would Parrival ride apace, 385

And he thought, 'They who go before me to-day will ä foeman face
And fight for their master's honour ; an they knew it, their ring of might
Methinks would be little weakened if I in their ranks should fightf
I would waver not, but would aid them whatever be their need to-day.
Thus my bread would I earn, and this fair sword, the gift of my host, repay, 390
Undeserved as yet do I bear it— Sure they hold me for coward knight 1 '
Then he turned him, the free from falsehood, where the hoof-tracks still

met his sight,
(And sorely I rue his parting— Now the venture doth grow apace,)
They had parted who rode before him, and their track he might scarcely trace.
What aforetime was broad waxed narrow till he lost it nor found it more 395
And tidings he heard, the hero, that wrought to him sorrow sore.

«
For the young knight, rich in courage, heard a woman's voice make moan.
(On the grass lay the dew of morning) On a linden there sat alone
A maiden, whose truth wrought her sorrow, for between her arms so white
Embalmed did she lifeless hold him who living had been her knight. 400

Were there one who saw her sorrow and mourned not for her bitter woe
Then false of heart must I hold him, one who true love might never know !

142 PARZIVAL

Then he turned his steed towards her, the' as yet unknown was she,
(Tho' the child of his mother's sister) — ^As the wind that fleeteth free
405 Is all earthly &ith to her true' love — Then Parsival greeting spake,
* Lady, methinks that sorrow I must bear for thy sorrow's sake,
An thou needst in aught my service, would it free thee from fruther ill,
Then look thou on mt as thy servant, thy grief were I fain to st'dl I '

Then sadly her thanks she bade him, and asked him, ' Whence earnest thou
here?

410 He were ill-advised who his journey should take thro^ this woodland drear.
To them who know not its pathways great evil might here betide.
Yea, oft have I seen and hearkened how men in this wood have died.
For death was in strife their portion— Turn hence then, thou gallant knight,
An thou lovest life— Yet tell me in what shelter didst pass the night ? '

415 ' But a mile from here stands a castle, there I thro* the night abode.

And naught have I seen like its riches, from thence in short space I rode.'
Then the maiden she looked upon him, and she spake, * Now, methinks,

'twere ill
With falsehood to thus betray them who trust thee with right goodwill
From thy shield art thou here a stranger, and canst naught but woods have
found,

490 An here thou hast ta'en thy journey from planted and builded ground,

^ For thirty mUes round have they never, for a dwelling, hewn wood or stone,
Save but for one Burg, in this region that Burg it doth stand alone.
'Tis rich in all earthly riches, yet he who that castle fair
Would seek, he may never find it, tho* many that quest shall dare.

425 Unawares must they chance upon it, for I wot in no other wise
Shall that Burg and all that it holdeth be looked on by mortal eyes.
Sir Knight, fAou hast never seen it ; Monsalväsch I ween its name, J

Terre de Salväsch the kingdom where its lord the crown may claim, I

And Titurel once bequeathed it to his son King Frimutel,

430 So they called him, the dauntless hero ; much fame to his portion fell,
In a joust was he slain at Love's bidding, and four children fair he left,
And three, they have store of riches, yet are they of joy bereft.
And poor is the fourth, for penance hath he chosen this lot I trow,
Trevrezent is his name — Anfortas, his brother, hath grief enow,

435 He can neitlier stand, nor be seated, nor walk, but must aye recline.
At Monsalväsch he hath his dwelling, the head of that noble line.'

ANFORTAS 143

Then she spake, ' If indeed thou earnest to that folk who so sore doth moarn
Then perchance is their king releasM from the burden he long hath borne ?'
Out spake the Waleis^ * I saw truly great marvels, and many a maid
Of beauty rare' — she knew him by his voice ere the words were said. 440

And she quoth, ' Now indeed I know thee, for in sooth art thou Parzival !
Didst thou see the mournful monarch ? Didst thou see the wondrous Grail ?
Ah ! tell me the joyfrd tidings, may his woe at last be stilled ?
Well is thee that the blessM journey thou hast ta*en, now shall earth be

fiUed,
As^ar as the winds of heaven may blow, with thy £ur renown ; 445

Naught on earth but shall do thee service, fulfilment each wish shall crown ! '

Then Parzival spake in wonder, * Say, Lady, whence knowest thou me?'

^d she answered, ' I am that maiden who erewhile made her plaint to thee,

I am she who thy name first told thee, near of kin to that gracious queen

Thy mother, of all earth's blossoms the fairest flower, I ween, 450

Tho* a flower that the dew ne'er nourished ! May God reward thee well

Who didst truly mourn my hero who in knightly combat fell.

See, here in my arms I hold him, now think thou upon the woe

God hath laid for his sake upon me who too short a life must know ;

Rich was he in all manly virtues, his death it has wrought me pain, 455

And day by day as it dawneth reneweth my plaint again ! '

* Alas ! is it thou, Sigun^ ? Say, where are thy lips so red

Thr.t gave me to wit so truly who I was ? From thy youthful head

Have thy locks so brown and waving been shorn since I saw thee last ;

Then wert thou still fair to look on, tho' sorrow might hold thee fast, 460

Now pale art thou waxed and feeble, such friendship, methinks with woe

Had vexed me too much, hear my counsel, and bury this dead knight low ! '

Great tears bedewed her garments, for ne'er to that maiden fair

Had any given such counsel aä Lunete to her lady bare.

(This rede did she give to her lady, * Let him live who thy lord hath slain, 465

Thou shalt in his love hereafter amends for thy sorrow gain.')

Not such was the will of Sigun^, as maidens of wavering mind,

(On their names I had best keep silence) here the tale of true love ye '11 find.

Then she spake, ^ If joy e'er befall me that shall be when I know relief

144 PARZIVAL

470 Is hit, who so long hath suffered, when is lightened his load of grief.

If thro* tkse he hath found this succour then in truth shall all praise be

thine ;
Methinketh ^en now at thy girdle do I see his sword to shine —
If its magic spell thou knowest then to strife mayest thou fearless fare,
For its edge is keen— Its maker a noble name doth bear,

475 Trebuchet's hand hath wrought it ; by Kamant there flows a spring.

And ^ Lac^ from the name of that streamlet methinks is he named, the king.
The sword will withstand the first blow, at the next it will break in twain.
An thou to these waters bring It from their flow 'twill be whole again.
Yet where at its source the streamlet flows forth from its rocky bed, .

480 Shalt thou seek those healing waters ere the sun stand high overhead.
Lac is the name ofthat fountain — If unsplintered shall be the blade
Then press thou its halves together, from the waters shall it be made.
Not whole alone, but stronger the blade and the edge shall grow.
Nor their brightness and fair adorning be dimmed by the water's flow.

485 Yet a spell thou first must master, ere thou draw that sword of might.
Thou hast left it behind, I fear me ! Hast thou learnt its words aright.
Then in truth all earthly blessings shall blossom and bear for thee —
Believe me, dear my cousin, what of marvels thou there couldst see.
To thine hand shall they aU do service ; the crown of blessings fair

490 Uplifted o*er all earth's noblest henceforward thine head shall bear.
And thine is desire's fulfilment, and none with thy wealth and might
May measure himself, if the question hath won at thy lips its right ! '

Then he quoth, ' Nay, I asked no question 1 ' ' Alas 1 ' cried the mournful

maid,
' That ever mine eyes have seen thee, who to question wast sore afiraid 1
495 Such marvels they there have shown thee, yet no word might they win from

thee,
When thou sawest the Grail, and those maidens who serve It, from falsehood

free,
Fair Garschiloie, and yet fairer Repanse de Schoie the queen.
Thou hast seen the knives of silver, thou the bleeding spear hast seen —
Alas 1 wherefore hast thou sought me? Dishonoured, accurst art thou
500 Who bearest wolfs fang empoisoned ! And deep in thine heart I trow
Is it rooted, the plant of falsehood, and afresh doth it ever spring !
Thou shouldst have had pity on him, Anfortas, their host and king.

ANFORTAS 145

And have asked of his-bitter sorrow, on whom God hath a wonder sped,
Now thou livest, and yet I tell thee to bliss art thou henceforth dead ! '

Then he spake, * Nay, gentle cousin, show kindness to me I pray, 5^

If in aaght I have sinned, repentance my sin sure shall put away 1 '

* Little good may repentance do thee,' quoth the maiden, ' for well I know

That thy knightly feme and honour at Monsalväsch* were laid alow.

And never a further answer or word shalt thou win from me.'

Then Parzival turned his bridle and left her right mournfully. S'o

That his lips were so slow to question when he sat by the mournful king,

To the heart of the gallant hero must sorrow and rueing bring ;

And thus thro' his heavy trouble, and the heat of the summer's day.

Great sweat*drops stood on his forehead as he rode on his lonely way.

For the sake of the air he loosened his helmet and visor band, 515

And his face shone fair thro' the iron-rust as he carried them in his hand.

Then he saw a fresh track, and before him short space did two horses fare,

A war-horse was one, well harnessed, but unshod was, I ween, the mare,

And it bare on its back a woman — Behind her he took his way.

And he looked on her steed, to hunger o'er-long had it been a prey ; 520

Thro' its skin might its ribs be counted, a halter of hemp its rein.

Its colour was white as an ermine, to the hoofs hung the untrimmed mane ;

The eyeballs were sunk in the sockets, the hollows were deep and wide,

And I ween that this lady's palfrey by famine had oft been tried.

Twas lean and dry as touchwood, 'twas a marvel it yet could go, 5^5

For little should she who rode it of the care of a charger know.

Narrow and poor the trappings that lay on that charger's back.
The saddle and bells were shattered, and much did the harness lack ;
And the lady was sad, not joyful, and her girth was a hempen cord.
Yet, I ween, was her birth too noble in such guise to ride abroad. 5jo

By twigs and thorny branches tattered her shift and torn.
And the rags had she knit together where'er it had been out-worn.
But beneath her skin gleamed spotless, white as the swan's white wing ;
And naught but rags was her clothing — where they might some shelter bring
There her skin was fair to look on, but elsewhere 'twas by sunburn dyed. 535
Yet her lips were red, tho' sorrow and want she must long abide,
VOL. L K

146 PARZIVAL

And so glowing and bright their colour a fire had ye kindled there.
And where-e'er one would ride beside her on that side had ye found her bare.
Yet of base degree to hold her were to do her a wrong, I ween,
540 Tho' little had she upon her, yet guiltless she aye had been —
(Of your courtesy shall ye heed me, she forgot not her womanhood)
Of her poverty have I told ye, yet wherefore ? If ye deem good
Then this will I say, thatr ragged and bare I this dame would take
O'er many a well-clad maiden, were it fitting my choice to make.

545 As Parzival bade her greeting, she saw him, and red she grew,

Of all men was he the Hurest, small marvel his face she knew.

Then she quoth, 'Once before have I seen thee, great grief have I won thro'
thee :

God grant to tliee greater honour than thou hast deserved from me !

Far other hath been my raiment when thou sawest me last, I wot,
550 Hadst thou ne'er in that hour come near me then honour were still my lot !'

Then he spake, ' Now bethink thee, Lady, who thus should thy hatred claim,

For never my hand, I think me, hath brought to a woman shame,

(So had I x^/^'j^^ dishonoured) since ever I bare a shield,

Or thought upcn deeds of knighthood, or hath striven in battle-field ;

555 Yet else am I sad for thy sorrow I ' Then forth brake the tear-drops bright.
And ran fast adown her bosom, and over her breasts so white,
So fair, and so softly moulded, that never might turner's skill,
Tho' swiftly he wrought and rounded, his task in such wise fulfil.
And sa lovely was she in her sorrow his heart was to pity fain,

560 And with hands and arms a cover from his glance did she strive to gain.

Then Parzival spake, * Now, Lady, of true service from mocking free,
In God's Name take' thou here my surcoat, a covering 'twill be for thee.'
* Nay, Sir Knight, I may never take it, e'en tho' bliss I thereby should gain,
Ride swift on thy way, I pray thee, an thou wouldst not we both were slain ;
565 Tho' my death it would little grieve me, if I fear me, 'tis for thy sake ! '
' Say, Lady, who thus would wrong us ? Who thinketh our life to take ?
'Twas God's hand that gave it to us— Nay, were they an armM host
Who here for our life were thirsting, I would face them nor fear the cost ! '

Then she spake, *'Tis a dauntless hero, so gallant in strife is he
570 That heavy would be their labour if six should his foemen be ;

ANFORTAS 147

(I would thou wert not beside me) I aforetime his wife had been,

Yet so poor am I now and wretched, for his slave were I all too mean,

Thus his wrath doth he wreak upon me.' To that lady he spake again,

' Say, who rideth here with thy husband ? For if I to fly were fain.

As here thou dost give me counsel, thyself sure wouldst deem it ill, 575

Ere of flight I have learnt the lesson I would die with a right good will ! '

Then out spake the Duchess sadly, * Alone with my lord I fare,

But yet that may little serve thee, nor shall victory be here thy share.'

And in rags was all her vesture, and naught but the hem untorn.

Yet the crown of woman's honour in her poverty had she worn, .g^

And her ways were ways of goodness, and falsehood afar had fled —

Then he bound afresh his visor and the helmet upon his head

As one who to battle rideth — Then his charger aloft would rear,

It was 'ware of the steed beside it, and its neigh rang out loud and clear ;

And he who a space before them on the woodland way would ride, ^8^

He hearkened the sound, and would see him who rode there by his lady's

side.
Then he turned his bridle wrathful by the side of the narrow way.
And with lance in rest for jousting Duke Orilus rode that day,
And manly, I ween, his bearing, from Gaheviess came his spear.
And weapon alike and harness of one colour were blazoned clear. 590

His helmet, Trebuchet wrought it ; the shield in distant Spain

Was welded fair for the hero. King Kailet in that land doth reign,

And strong were the rim and the centre— In Alexandria's city fair

Was the costly pfellel woven that for surcoat and coat he ware.

The covering of his charger at Tenabroc was it made ^^^

Of rings of steel close welded — ^And thus he his pride displayed,

For over the iron cover lay a pfellel so fair to see,

And all men who saw barie witness that costly its worth must be^ —

And gorget, and greaves, and headgear, tho* rich, yet their weight was light,

And many a plate of iron it guarded this gallant knight ; 600

In Beäl^enan was it fashioned, chief city of fair Anjou.

(But she who rode bare behind him far ocher her garb to view^

For in sooth might she And none better) from Soissons his breastplate

came.
But he won his gallant charger from the far-oflflake Brimbane,

148 PARZIVAL

605 In the mounUins of Monsalväsch — Lähelein, his brother bold,
In a joust overthrew the rider, and the steed as his prize would hold.

And Parsival too was ready— his chaiigrer in onward flight
'Gainst Orilus of Laland^ bare swiftly the gallant knight ;
And he saw on his shield a dragon, yea, e'en as it were alive,

610 And another upon the helmet fost bounden did upward strive.
And many small golden dragons on surcoat and robe he bare,
Enriched with many a jewel, and with red eyes of ruby fair.
From afar would they make their onslaught, these dauntless heroes twain,
No need to renounce their friendship, nor thro* kinship from strife refrain,

615 Aloft flew the spears in splinters — Methinks I might vaunt me well
If I such a joust had witnessed as here in this wood befell !

Thus they rode at swiftest gallop not one joust alone, I ween.

And Jeschut^ at heart bare witness fairer jousting she ne'er had seen ;

So she stood, and her hands she wrung them, this lady of joy bereft,

6ao Nor harm did she wish to either, that one should be lifeless left.

In sweat were they bathed, the chargers, and the knights they strove for £une,
And sparks sprang bright from the sword-blades, and forth from the helm

flashed flame,
And the blows fell fierce and mighty, and far flashed the light of strife.
None were better than they in battle, and they met here for death or life,

6a5 And tho' willing and swift the chargers that the heroes would here bestride.
They forgot not their spurs, and their sword-blades bright-glancing they

deftly plied.
And Parzival won him honour, for here hath he rightly shown
How before a hundred dragons one man well might hold his own.

And ill did it fare with one dragon, and sore were its wounds that day,
630 Twas the crest that aloft in glory on Orilus' helmet lay.

And so clear that the light shone thro' them were the costly jewels bright

That fell when the helm was smitten by Parzival's sword of might ;

Twas on horse, not afoot, that they fought thus — The love of her angry
lord

Was won back again for Jeschut^ by the play of the glittenng sword.
635 Then they dashed again on each other so close that they smote away.

With their knees, the rings of iron — So valiant in strife were they !

ANFORTAS i49

I will tell ye why one was wrathful ; that his lady of royal race
Ere this had been shamed ; her guardian, from him might she look for grace ;
Yet he deemed that with wandering fancy her heart from her lord had strayed,
And that she, in the love of another, her honour had lowly laid. ^^^

And he would for such wrong have vengeance, and his judgment on her

was done
In such wise, save were death her portion no woman such woe had won,
And yet she in naught had wronged him — If his favour he would withhold,
What man e'er might think to hinder ? For ever from days of old
The man hath power o'er the woman, the husband shall rule the wife. ^45

Yet Parzival the hero, he thought him to win with strife
For Jeschutd her husband's favour — Methinks one should pray such grace
In courteous wise, but flattery it here found but little place.
And both they were right, I think me — He who ruleth the ways of life.
Or straight they may be or crooked, 'twas His so to rule their strife ^S°

That never to one nor the other the joust death for guerdon brought,
Harm enow had they done to each other the while they so fiercely fought.

Now hotter it waxed, the conflict, each hero would fain defend

His knightly fame 'gainst the other ; Duke Orilus of Lalande,

He fought with the skill and cunning his hand had learnt of yore, ^55

For I ween none like him had battled — he had courage and strength in

war.
And therefore had he been victor on many a foughten field,
Tho' other were here the ending — His foe would he force to yield ;
And he threw his arms around him, the hero so proud and bold,
But Parzival, little daunted, on his foeman made good his hold, 660

And he drew him from off his saddle ; as a sheaf from the field ye reap
So beneath his arm he swung him, and light from his horse did leap.
O'er a fallen tree he held him, for here was he overthrown
Who never of need or peril such fortune before had known.

* Now do penance for this thine anger that hath wrought to thy lady woe, 665
An thy fovour be yet withholden, then death shalt thou surely know !'

* Nay, nay, not so swift,' quoth his foeman, Duke Orilus of Lalande,

' Tho^ o'erthrown, I am not so vanquished that I may not thy will withstand ! '

Then Parzival, strong and valiant, his foeman he gripped amain.

And forth thro' the visor gushing streamed the blood in a crimson rain, 670

I50 PARZIVAL

And the prince, I ween, was vanquished, he could win from him what he

would,
To die was he all unwilling, and he spake to the hero good,
' Alas ! thou bold knight dauntless, who evil on me hath sped.
Say how have I earned this peril, to lie here before thee, dead ? '

675 Then Parzival quoth, ' Right gladly, Sir Knight, will I let thee live.
If favour and love to thy lady thou swearest again to give !'

* That I will not ! Her sin against me I trow all too £;reat shall be.
Rich in honour she was ; she hath injured herself, and she plungeth me,
Her lord, in yet deeper sorrow.. In all else thy will I '11 heed,

680 An thou thinkest my life to leave me — Twas God gave it me indeed,
Now thine hand is become His servant, to give it to me anew.
And I to thy valour owe it ' — In this wise spake the hero true :

* For my life will I give fisiir ransom, for kingdoms twain, I trow.
My brother with might hath won him, of riches he hath enow.

685 Thou shalt ask as it best may please thee : if from death thou wilt set me
free.
He loveth me, and will loose me whatever the cost may be.
And my Dukedom again as thy v^isal will I take from thy valiant hand,
Thy fame it shall gain new lustre, since I might not thy power withstand.
Now release me, thou hero dauntless, from forgiveness of her, my wife ;

690 Whatever shall be for thine honour, by that will I buy my life,
But with her, my dishonoured Duchess, at peace will I never be,
Nay, not for all pain or sorrow that shall otherwise fall to me ! '

Quoth Parzival, ' Folk or kingdoms, or riches or jewels rare,

All these they shall nothing profit — Thy pledge thou |o me shalt swear

695 In naught to delay thy journey, but to haste thee to Brittany

Where dwelleth a gentle maiden— One hath smitten her sore for me,
And I will on that man have vengeance, an his safety she shall not pray —
Thy pledge and my loyal service bear thou to that maid straightway,
Or here, without fail, I slay thee — To King Arthur and to his queen,

700 To both shalt thou bear my greeting ; well paid hath my service been,
If they for that blow ill-smitten the maiden do well entreat.
But first will I see that thou givest to this lady thine homage meet.
And that without guile-^Dost withstand me, and thinkest my will to dare,
On a bier, and no more on a charger, from hence shalt thou lifeless fare !

ANFORTAS 151

Now mark thou my words, for their doing a pledge shalt thou straightway 705

give,
And thy surety swear unto me, if longer thou fain wouldst live ! '
To King Parzival spake his foeman, Duke Orilus, ' Helpeth naught
'Gainst this thy will, I will do it, for fain I my life had bought ! *

In the fear for the life of her husband Jeschut^ that lady fair,

Mourned sore for his woe, yet the foemen to part might she little dare. 710

Then Parzival bade him rise up, and speak to his lady bright

The words of peace and of pardon ; and thus quoth the vanquished knight,

' Lady, since this my shaming in strife hath been for thy sake.

So be it, the kiss of forgiveness from my lips shalt thou herewith take.

Thro* thee have I lost much honour — What boots it ? I pardon sware ! * 7^5

Then swift from her steed on the meadow sprang the lady with white limbs

bare,
Tho' the blood that ran from his nostrils had dyed his mouth with red.
Yet she kissed him e'en as he bade her, so was ParzivaFs bidding sped.

Then the three rode on together till a hermit's cell they saw
In the rocky wall, and our hero his bridle was fain to draw ; 790

For he saw there a shrine so holy, and a spear with fair colours blent
Stood beside the shrine ; 'twas the dwelling of the hermit Trevrezent

There Parzival dealt with honour — On the relic an oath he sware.

Himself laid the oath upon him, and he spake and they hearkened fair ;

' If I have worth or valour, as 'seemeth a gallant knight — 725

If I have it or not let those witness who have looked on my shield in fight ;

Ye«i, let them approve my knighthood, for knighthood's power may claim,

As the shield-bearer oft shall tell us, high guerdon of praise and fame.

And the name of knight is honoured — My body to shame for aye

Will I give, and my fsane and honour henceforth shall be put away ; 7dP

(With these wo^.'ds I my bliss would pledge here in the Hand that shall

highest be.
And that Hand is God's Hand, I think me) — All loss, bitter mockery,
In this life and the next be my portion from His power, if this lady fair
E'er did thee wrong when it chanced her that the clasp from her robe /tare —
(Of a token of gold I robbed her) — Kfool and no man was I, 735

Not yet had I waxed to wisdom — And sore did she weep thereby.

152 PARZIVAL

And angnish and grief she soffered ; yea, guiltless was she that day—
And forfeit my bliss and mine honour if the words be not truth I say !
Now see, dost thou hold her guiltless thou shalt give her her ring again,
740 From the clasp I in such wise parted that my folly must bear the blame !'

Then the Duke took the ring,and the blood-stains he wiped from his lips away,
And he kissed her, his heart's best treasure — And a covering she won straight-
way ;
The ring he placed on her finger, with his surcoat her shame would hide,
Tho* hewn by the hand of hero, of rich silk was it fashioned wide.

745 But seldom in coat emblazoned mine eyes have a woman seen.
And this one was marred in combat. No war-cry was hers, I ween.
That should summon the knights to Tourney, and never a spear she brake
Whatever her garb — In Tourney far better the part they 'id take,
Lambekein, methinks, and the good squire, if together they thought to fight—

750 But now was the lady pardoned, and her sorrow had taken flight.

Quoth Orilus, 'Now, thou hero, the oath thou didst freely swear,

Great joy and small grief hath brought me ; tho' shaming I needs must

bear.
Yet gladness therefrom I win me — In all honour I will repay
This lady true for her sorrow when I put her in shame away.

755 And since all alone I left her she was guiltless did aught betide ;
Yet so did she speak of thy beauty, methought there was more beside.
But now may God reward thee, thou hast shown her from ÜEÜsehood free,
I have done her a wrong— Thro' the young wood have I ridden in search of

thee
Afar from Briziljan's forest.' Then Parzival took the spear,

7^ Wild Taurian, Dodine's brother, erewhiie had he left it here.

Now say where the heroes rested, or how they would pass the night —
Helmet and shield had suffered, they were shattered and hewn in fight.
Then Parzival to the lady, and her husband, a farewell bade ;
The Duke to his hearth would bid him, 'twas in vain howsoe*er he prayed.

765 So here, as the venture telleth, they parted, those heroes twain,
And the Prince Orilus he sought him his pavilion and folk again.
And glad were his faithful people with one mind when at last they saw
Their lord and his gracious lady dwell in peace and in love once more.

ANFORTAS 153

Nor longer was there delaying, the Duke he aside would lay

His anns, and the mst and tdood-stains from his face did he wash away.; 770

By her hand he led the Duchess where atonement he fiun would make,

Weeping she lay beside him for joy, not for sorrow's sake.

For such is the way of women, know ye not the saying well ?

* Tearful eyes make sweet lips,' of such lore methinks I yet more might tell t

For Love knoweth joy as sorrow, and he who the twain would weigh 775

In a balance shall find them equal an he testeth the scales alway 1

A^ peace were they now, full surely, forthwith to the bath they went.
Twelve fair maidens they waited on her, with them had she shared her tent,
They had tended her since, all guiltless, the wrath of her love she bare ;
(At night might she lie well covered, tho* by day she ill-clad must hit) 780
And joyful they bathed their lady — But now are ye fain to hear
How Orilus won him tidings that King Arthur would now draw near.

For thus spake a knight to his master, * On a grassy plain I saw

In fair and knightly order a thousand tents, yea, more,

For Arthur the noble monarch, the King of the Breton's land 785

With a wondrous hit host of maidens his court holdeth nigh at hand ;

Methinks scarce a mile are they distant, nor shout of knights shall fail.

On either side PlimizÖl's waters their camp lies adown the vale.'

Then the Duke in haste and gladness forth from his bath he stept —

Would ye know how she fared, Jeschut^ ? No longer the lady wept, 790

But she went, the flair and gentle, from her bath to her couch straightway.

And far fiiirer, I ween, her garments than she ware for many a day.

And closely they clung together, the prince and the princess wise.

And Love came to the aid of gladness, and joy here hath won the prize.

Then the maidens they clad their lady, but the knights their lord's armour 795

brought.
Ana much had ye praised the vesture of Jeschut^ 'twas fairly wrought
And birds caught in snares they brought them, on their .couch did they sit

the twain.
And joyful they ate ; many kisses from her lord did Jeschut^ gain t

Then they brought to the lovely lady a palfrey, so strong and fair,

'Twas bridled, and richly saddled, and a lady right well might bear, 800

154 PARZIVAL

And they lifted her to the saddle, with her brave lord she hence would ride ;
But his charger was armed, as for battle the knight would his steed bestride.
And the sword he that mom had wielded hung the saddle-bow before.
Then from foot to head well arm^ he came forth to his steed once morei,
^5 And there, where his lady waited, to the saddle he sprung, the knight,
He would ride forth without delaying, with Jeschut6 his lady bright
But his folk should fare back to Lalande^ save one knight who should show

the way
To the camp and the court of King Arthur, so he counselled his folk that day.

«

Soon came they anear King Arthuis and his tents they right well espied,
8io For the space of a mile they stretched them adown by the water's side.
The knight who had led him hither he bade to his folk repair.
No comrade he 'Id have save Jeschut^ his lady so true and fair.
And Arthur, the brave and humble, he sat where at eve he 'Id eat,
On a plain with his vassals round him, in order due and meet.
8x5 Duke Orilns rode to their circle, and none might his blazon know,
So hewn were both shield and helmet— 'twas Parzival dealt such blow !

From his horse sprang the gallant hero, Jeschut^ she held his rein ;
Swift sprang the squires to aid them, and thronged close around the twain,
And they spake, 'We will care for the horses,' — Orilus, on the grass he laid
890 His shield so marred and splintered, and he asked'of the gracious maid
For whose sake he had ridden thither, and they showed him the lady's seat,
Kunnewaar^ she was of Lalande, and her mien for a maid was meet.

Then, armed, he drew near unto them — King and queen bade him welcome

fair.
He thanked them, and to his sislpr his pledge was he fain to swear,

895 But the maiden, right well she knew him by the golden dragon's shine.
And she spake, 'Thou art sure my brother, Orilus, or Lähelein,
And pledge will I take from neither, for both of ye aye were fain
To render to me such service as I from your hands would gain.
I were dead to all truth and honour if I dealt with thee as a foe,

830 My courtesy sure were shamM by my own hand, and laid alow.'

Then the prince knelt before the maiden and he spake, 'Thou the truth

hath said,
I am Orilus thy brother ; the Red Knight this oath hath laid

ANFORTAS 155

On me that my pledge I yield thee, for so must I buy my life,

Wilt thott take it, then have I done that which I sware after bitter strife.*

Then his pledge, who had borne the dragon, in her white hand the maid 835

must take,
And she set him free, and he rose up, and thus to his sister spake :

' Now to sorrow shall foith constrain me, alas ! who hath smitten thee ?
The blows perforce must wound me — He who lusted thereto might see,
If this were the hour for vengeance, that grief I with thee must share ;
And the bravest of men moumeth with me that ever a woman bare, 340

He calleth himself the Red Knight — O king ! he doth bid me greet
Both thee and the queen thy lady, he doth offer ye service meet,
As he foin would serve this my sister — His service ye will repay.
If ye kindly entreat this maiden that her shaming be put away.
And I, too, had fared far better at the hand of this dauntless knight, 845

Had he known the maid for my sister, and her blows on my heart must
light'

Now Kay, he hath earned fresh hatred from all who would there abide,

Both knights and gentle ladies, by Plimizdl's flowing tide.

From lofreit the son of Idol, from Gawain, and the vanquished king

Klamid6, of whose sore peril I of yore unto ye would sing. 850

And from many another hero whose names I right well had told.

But o'er-long would it be my story — So they thronged round the hero bold.

And, courteous, he took their service — his wife would they nearer bring.

She sat as yet on her palfrey, and they welcomed her, queen aiid king.

Then the women they kissed each other, and thus spake the king so true, 855
' Thy father, King Lac of Kamant, for a gallant man I knew.
For his sake I mourned thy sorrow when first men the tale did bear,
Methinks that thy lord should have spared thee for the sake of thy face so

lair I
For the prize was thine at Kanedig thro* the light of thy beauty's ray,
And the hawk didst thou win for thy fairness, on thine hand did it ride away. 860
If OrilttS wrong hath done me, yet I wished unto thee no ill,
And never I liked his judgment ; and so doth it please me still
To see thee restored to fovour, and clad in these garments fair,
As fitting thy state, O Lady ! since woe thou o'er-long didst bear.'

156 PARZIVAL .

865 And she quoth, ' Now may God reward thee, O Sire ! for these words so
true,
That thy £une may wax the higher, and may blossom and bloom anew ! '

Then Jeschut^ and her husband, the twain, she took by the hand.

And forth from the circle led them, the maiden of fair Lalande.

And near to the royal pavilion, where a stream from the meadow sprung,

870 Stood her tent on the plain, and above it a wingM dragon hung ; ^

Half an apple it held in its clutches, and four ropes did it draw on high,
E'en as if the tent it lifted, and aloft to the clouds would fly.
And Orilus thereby knew it, for the self-same arms he bare.
And beneath it would they disarm him — llien his sister so true and foir,

875 She gave him due care and honour, and the vassals, each one they spake.
How the Red Knight's valour dauntless would Fame for its comrade take.

As thus aloud men praised him, in Kingron's ear spake Kay,
And he bade him do Orilus service — (Well he might, whom he thus did pray.
For oft had he done such service for Xlamid^ in Brandigan.)
880 And for this Kay would give his office to the hand of another man.
His ill-star had bid him smite her, the prince's sister fair.
So hard with his staff, 'twas fitting from their service he should forbear.
Nor pardon she found for his trespass, this maiden of royal race ;
But viands he sent, and Kingron, he set them before their face.

885 Kunnewaar^ the wise and gentle, with her slender hands and white,
Would cut the food for her brother, at his side sat his lady bright.
And Jeschut^ of Kamant bare her with courteous and comely mien.
And Arthur the King forgat not, for fain he the twain had seen.
And he came where they sat together, and ate with right friendly will,

890 And he spake, ' Be good service lacking, then for sure it shall please me ill, '
For ne'er hath a host received ye, I trow, with a will so good.
And a heart so free from falsehood 1' And he spake in kindly mood,
' My Lady Kunnewaar^ see thou well to this gallant knight.
And the blessing of God be on ye, and keep ye till morning light ! '

895 Then Arthur to rest betook him, and a couch for the twain they spread.
And till dayligh| in peace they slumbered, and sorrow afar had fled.

i

BOOK VI
ARTHUR

i

ARGUMENT

Book vi. tells how King Arthur sought for the Red Knight ; and how
he took an oath of his heroes to refrain firom fighting. Of the blood-
stained snow, and the love-tranoe c^ Parzival ; and how, unknowing, he
overthrew Segramor, and took vengeance on Kay. How Gawain led
Fsraval to the court of King Arthur ; and how he was made a knight of
the Round Table. Of the coming of Kondrie, and Kingrimursel. and the
shaming of Parzival and Gawain. Of Farzival's wrath and despair, and
how he rode forth to sedc the Grail. How the knights went forth to the
venture of Chateau Merveil ; and how Gawain rode to Askalon ; and of th^
scattering of this goodly company.

^

BOOK VI
ARTHUR

)OW perchance it were wdl I should tell ye, how, as this his
folk did pray,
Fiom Karidol and his kingdom, King Arthur had ridden

away.
And now the venture telleth, on his own and on stranger
ground
For eight days long had they ridden, nor yet had the Red Knight found.
For in truth 'twas for him they were seeking, to honour his hand were fain, 5
From sorrow had he released them, who had erst Prince Ither slain ;
And Klamid^ the king, and Kingron, in a welcome hour had sent
To the court of the Breton Monarch : for on this was King Arthur bent,
He would make him one of his circle, a knight of the Table Round,
No labour too great he counted, so the hero at last he found ! 10

Thus o'er moimtain and rale they sought him — ^All who knightly shield

might bear.
King Arthur now called around him, and in this wise he bade them swear :
What deeds so e'er of knighthood they should see, by this their oath,
They should on no conflict venture, but faithful still keep their troth.
As they sware unto him, their monarch, and fight but as he thereto 15

Should give them leave — He spake thus, ' Now, 'tis well ! Since we needs

must go
Thro' many a stranger country, where many a stranger spear.
And many a gallant hero are waiting us, I fear.
If ye, like hounds untrainM whose leash shall have slipped the hand
Of him who was late their master, shall roam free o'er all the land, ao

i6o PARZIVAL

Much evil might there befall ye, and such chance should but please me ill.
And by this your oath, I think me, such rawness I best may still.
Be ye sure and need ariseth, your king ne'er will say you Nay,
Till then, as I here command ye, ride peacefiil upon your way.'

35 Now the oath, ye shall well have heard it — Now hear ye how Pandval,
The Waleis, rode near unto them : thro' the night did the snow-flakes fall.
Light they fell, yet lay thickly on him, yet if well I the tale may know,
And the singer aright hath sung it, it was never the time of snow ;
For whate'er men have stmg or spoken of King Arthur, at Whitsuntide,

30 Or when May-blossoms deck iht meadow, these marvels did aye betide.
For sweetly the springtide bloometh, and many a garb, I ween.
Shall it bear this song of my singing, tho' snow-clad it now be seen.

The falconers from Karidol, as the shadows of evening fell.
Rode, hawking, by PlimizöPs waters, when an evil chance befell,
35 For the best of their hawks flew from them, nor stooped to the lure again.
But all night in the dusky shadows of the woodland it did remain.

With Parzival it sheltered; to the twain was the woodland way

A road unknown, sharp the frost stung, in the far east uprose the

day,
And, !o ! all around the hero, the snow-flakes lay thick and white :

40 Thro' the forest paths untrodden, in ever waxing light,

Rode our hero by hedge or thicket, by rock and by fallen tree.
Till dear grew the shadowy woodland, and its depths he well might see.
And a mighty tree of the forest had fallen where he would ride,
(The falcon yet followed after) 'mid its clustering boughs he spied

45 A flock of wild-geese from the Northland, their hissing he first had heard,
Swift swooped the talcon upon them and struck to the earth a bird :
And scarce might it fly the clutches of its foe, and fresh shelter take
'Neath the shade of the fallen branches ; in its flight fixMtn the wounds

there brake
Three blood-drops, all glowing crimson, and fell on the spotless snow,

50 As Parzival's eyes beheld them, swift sorrow his heart must know !

Now hear ye his love so loyal — ^As he looked on these blood-drops bright.
That stained with a stain of crimson the snow-flakes that lay so white.

ARTHUR , i6i

He thought, * Say what hand hath painted these colours that here I see ?
Kondwiramur, I think well, these tints sure shall liken thee I
And white snow and blood-drops crimson, do ever thy Hkeness share, 55

For this Csivour I praise God's working, and the world he hath wxx>ught so

fair!
For in this wise I read the vision, — in this snow that so spotless lies,
'Gainst the blood-drops, that ruddy-gleaming, glow crimson beneath mine

eyes,
I find ever thy &ce so gracious, my lady, Kondwiramur,
Red as blood-drops and white as the snowdrift, it rejoiceth me evennote ! ' ^
Then her sweet face arose before him, in that night she first sought his side,
When on each cheek a tear-drop glistened, and a third to her chin did glide.
And so true was his love and steadfast, little recked he of aught around»
But wrapped round in love and longing, saw naught but the blood-stained

ground.
Frau Minne with force constrained him, as here on his wife he thought, 65
And by magic of colours mystic, a spell on his senses wrought.

So held he him still, as sleeping— Would ye know who found him there ?
The squire of fair Kunnewaar^ would forth unto Lalande fare,
And as on his way he journeyed, by the woodland green he saw
A helmet all battle-dinted, and a shield which yet traces bore . 70

Of many a bitter conflict that was foughten for lady £ur ;
And a knight there abode in armour, and his lance he aloft did bear
As one who here patient waited the joust that he &in would ride.
The squire swiftly turned his bridle and back to the camp he hied.
Yet in sooth had he seen the stranger, and his lady's champion known, 75

He had ne'er been so swift to decry him, nor had wished he were over-
thrown.
Nor e'en as he were an outlaw, set the heroes upon his track :
The squire he of queen unfaithful, small wonder he "knighthood lacked I

And in this wise he called upon them, ' Fie 1 Fie I on ye, coward knights I
Hold ye not Gawain for a marvel ? Have ye not in a hundred fights 80

Won honour and £une as heroes, who fight for a hero king ?
Know now that ye stand dishonoured, and broken your goodly ring ! '
Ah I then there arose a clamour, and none but was fain to know
Of the deed of knightly prowess, that should shame their honour so.
VOL* I. L

i62 PARZIVAL

85 When they heard how but one knight dared them, that but one knight a foe
did wait,
Then sorely they mourned the promise that they sware to their king of

late.
Then Knight Segramor sprang swif^y from amid the angry throng,
He ran, for in sooth he walked not, and ever his heart did long
To be in the midst of conflict, where conflict might chance to be,
90 An they failM with cords to bind him, in the thick of the fight was he 1
And nowhere the Rhine's swift waters may flow so strong and wide,
Tho^ the stream should run swift between them, an men fought on the further

side,
He stayed not to test the waters, if the current be hot or cold.
But straightway the stream he breasted, as fitted a swimmer bold !

95 Swift-foot to the tent of the monarch, the eager youth he sped.
For the day was but yet in its dawning, and the king he lay yet abed.
Then straight thro' the lists he hied him, and he gat him thro' the door,
And the covering all of sable, with hasty hand he tore
From the twain who lay warm beneath it, and slumbered a slumber deep,

100 Yet his haste moved them but to laughter, tho' he waked them from out their
sleep!
And loudly he cried on his cousin — ' Queen, Lady, Guinevere,
Sin.ce the world knowethwell our kinship, thou must do me this service here.
Speak thou for me to thine husband, and pray thou of him this grace,
Since a knightly venture nears us, my lot ßrst the foq to face ! '

Z05 Yet Arthur spake, * Now bethink thee of the oath thou didst swear to nie.
In all things my will to follow, nor rashly to venture thee ;
For if thou a joust now ridest, hereafter shall many a knight
Crave leave at mine hand to ride forth, and seek for fame in fight,
And 'twere ill thus our force to weaken, for know thou that near at hand,

no Anfortas of Monsalväsch with a mighty host doth stand.
This wood of his he guardeth, and since we but little know
Where he and his force shall hold them, such chance well might work us
woe ! '

Yet Guinevere wrought so wisely Segramor was well-nigh fiün
To die of joy, from King Arthur, his lady this grace did gain.

ARTHUR 163

And on fame and honour only was the gallant youth intent, 115

Nor for gold had he sold the venture on which his heart was bent

Now the hero young and beardless, well armed his steed bestrode,

And over the fresh young greensward his charger at full speed rode ;

And the bushes were bent beneath him, and the golden bells rang dear

On trapping alike and armour ; and I deem well an need were here 120

To seek for the magic pheasant mid thicket and thorny brake,

He who &in this knight had followed, the bells for his guide might take !

Thus rashly rode the hero, to him whom Frau Minne's spell

Fast fettered in magic fetters, and no blow at the first there fell.

For the peace by his word was broken — There held fast by threefold ^^5

might.
And the power of red blood-drops threefold stood ever the stranger knight.

(Yea, well I myself have known this, how Frau Minne with power may hold,

And holding, the senses scatter, and with passion of grief untold

Shall fill the heart to o'erfiowing— 'Twas a woman who wrought this ill,

And vanquished, she doth condemn me, and refuseth me comfort still. ^3Q

Thus draweth she guilt upon her, for the sin shall be hers, I ween.

And afar must I fiy from the presence, that of old time my joy hath been.)

Thus Segramor quoth unto him, ' Now it seemeth but ill to me

That thus near our army lieth, and our presence rejoiceth thee !

And thou boldest his flame too lightly, whom with pride we may hail our X35

king.
And 'tis meet thou for this do penance, — or the death-chime for me shall

ringl
Thus armed, all too near thou ridest ; yet first would I courteous pray
That thou yield thee at this my bidding, or my wrong will I here repay.
And my blow shall be swift, and thy falling shall scatter these snow-flakes

white !
And I call on thee here to yield thee, ere I put thee to shame. Sir Knight ! ' 140

Yet Parzival still kept silence— for Frau Minne, so fair and young.
In a sorer conflict held him — Then his steed Segramor swung
Aside, as for jousting ready, round wheeled him the war-horse good
On whose back the gallant hero yet sate in mystic mood,

i64 PARZIVAL

X45 And ever he gazed on the blood-dxops ; as his chaiger turned him round
Awhile from his eyes they vanished, and fiune in their stead he found I
For swift as the blood-drops crimson thus passed from his dazzled sight,
He hearkened the voice of the foeman, and braced him anew for fight.

Then as Segnunor rode against him, Parzival sought afiiesh the spear
150 That he found by the woodland chapel, with blazon of colours clear ;
For tough was the shaft, and he gripped it, and he held the point full low.
As his foeman dashed fair against him, his shield rang with the ringing blow.
Then he spuxred him anew to the onslaught, and the joust he so well repaid.
That the knight in his golden armour was low in the snowdrift laid !
155 Yet still was the spear unsplintered, tho* it bare him from off his horse ;
And Paxzival still kept silence, and he wheeled him upon his course,
And his eyes sought once more the blood-drops, and e'en as they met his

sight
Frau Minne with fetters bound him, and held him in cords of might.
And he spake never word, nor question, but gazed ever upon the ground,
x6o And, dreaming, he lost the knowledge which he for a space had found I

But affrighted, the gallant charger had fled back into its stall,
And its rider arose, little comfort might he find, though he soft might foil I
Outstretched had he lain in the snowdrift, in such wise e'en as men shall go
To rest, yet but ill he sleepeth, who sleepeth on couch of snow !
1^5 And such bed had sorrow brought me ! for he to whom ill betides

Hath but mocking for his bedfellow, but the lucky doth God's hand guide.

So near was King Arthur's army, that right well might Parzival
Be seen of all men, and the wonders, and the conflict that then befell
The victor by Love was vanquished, by Love that in days of old
170 Did the king of all kings the wisest. King Solomon, captive hold !

Short space, then, ere back to the army once more Knight Segramor came,
An with praise or with blame they should greet him, he counted it still the

same.
And sharp words he flung among them, with mocking tongue and bold,
Tho* vanquished, yet not dishonoured, must they ever the hero hold f

175 And he quoth, * Have ye never heard this, that strife bringeth loss as gain ?
And never a joust, I wot me, but the victor doth one remain.

ARTHUR 165

While one aye shall be the vanquished : The best ship in storm may sink,
And I wot that ye ne'er have heard me to speak, for I ne'er did think,
An he knew of my shield the blazon, he had faced me not as a foe I
Much evil, in sooth, hath he wrought me, and yet doth he wait below 180

All those who would ride against him, for he seemeth for conflict fain,
An a knight should in joust overthrow him, such chance might he count for
gain.*

Then straightway unto King Arthur Sir Kay did the tidings bring.

How his knight, Segramor, had fallen, and his victor, without their ring,

A young knight, for jousting ready, yet waited with ill intent — 185

' Nay, I think an this stranger warrior of so many unpunished went,

A burden both sore and shameful on our honour such lack would lay ;

Now, my king, an thou hold me worthy, do thou grant me this grace, I

pray,
I would ride hence to ask his meaning, who thus in the presence fair

Of our Queen Guinevere and her maidens his lance-point aloft doth bear ; 190

But if thou shouldist this boon refuse me, then know, not another hour

I abide here as this thy servant ; for I hold that the knightly power

And the fair fame of thy Roimd Table are stainM if we delay

To arm ourselves 'gainst the stranger who dareth our strength to-day 1

Now, I prithee, give leave to fight him — For tho' blind and deaf were we, 195

Yet 'tis time that we should defend us ' — * As thou wiliest, so let it be P

Then swift did the seneschal arm him, and I ween in fierce anger's fire

A woodland he fiEdn had wasted 'gainst the foe, who with strong desire

And love was thus sorely burdened ; for Frau Minne a magic spell

Had wrought with the snow-flakes spotless, and the blood-drops that crimson 200

fell
And his knighthood he sorely shamM, who thought here to woric him harm,
Since he faileth tx\ie Love to honour, who denieth of Love the charm.

Frau Minne, say, why dost thottmake glad the souls that mourn

With bliss that too swifUy fleeting, but leaveth them more forlorn ?

And how canst thou, Frau Minne, true worth and knightly fame, 205

And manly strength and courage^ thus vanquish and put to shame ?

For the least is to thee as the greatest, and the earth shall no hero boast.

Who thinketh to scorn thine empire, but he leameth unto his cost

i66 PARZIVAL

That thou canst, an thou wilt, overthrow him ; yea, all men thy power obey,
aio For thy sceptre we own as mighty, and wide as the world its sway.

Yet this one thing it doth thee honour, tho' thou rulest all else but ill,
Joy maketh her dwelling with thee, and for this would I praise thee still 1

Frau Minne, alas ! of old time full false were thy ways, I ween, i

Nor hast thou thy dealings mended, nor to-day hast thou truer been,

3X5 Thou hast many a maiden sham^ who love forbidden sought ;
Thro* thy dealings, upon the vassal, his lord hath sorrow brought ;
And the fiiend shall false and faithless to the friend of his bosom prove.
And the servant betray his master ; such deeds do but shame thee, Love !
And I would that it were far from thee, the body to yield to lust,

320 In such wise ^at the soul ashamed is stricken with sorrow's thrust,
And that with force compelling, the young thou makest old,
Though their years but few be counted, this must we for treason hold !

Such speech, I ween, beseems not the man who in serving thee

Hath comfort found ! If succour thine hand ever brought to me,
335 I had been less slow to praise thee, but sorrow and loss alone

Hast thou counted to me as guerdon, and such glamour thine art hath
thrown

O'er mine eyes, that, methinks, henceforward I trust thee never more.

Though small profit it brought unto thee, the bitter grief I bore !

And yet too high above me art thou, that whatever my wrong,
330 I should e'en as a fool upbraid thee with bitter words and strong :

For thy spear too sharply pierces, and scarce may we bear the weight.

Thou layest at will upon us^Methinks he who sang of late,

'Neath a tree, of thy mystic dealings, and thy wondrous ways of old,

Had better done had he told us how we thy grace might hold I ,
335 (Heinrich of Veldeck was he,' and he taught us, I ween, right well

Of the winning of Love, of its guarding, alas I he failed to tell.)

For oft one thro' folly loses the prize that he late did win ;

Yea, to me hath such fate befallen, yet Frau Minne, thine was the sin 1

Since all wisdom shall be thy portion, since against thee nor spear, nor shield,
240 Nor charger, nor guarded fortress their vaunted power can wield,

I know not what shall withstand thee, nor on earth, nor on the sea !

He who feareth to face thy conflict, say whither shall he flee ?

ARTHUR 167

'Twas thy mystic power, Frau Minne, that dealt thus with Panival,

And reft him awhile of knowledge, and wrought with him as a fooL

For ÜEur was the queen and gracious who reigned in far Pelrapär, 245

And she thought on her lord and husband, and she made thee her message

bear.
And for this cause Kardeiss her brother, hast thou for thy payment slair,
And since thou such tribute askest, 'tis well that I ne'er have ta'en
From thine hand aught of good, since in such wise thou dost for thy debtors

This I spake for the sake of all men — List ye now how Sir Kay did hat : 950

Now he rode forth in knightly armour to the strife that he sore did crave.
And Gamuret's son, right willing, to his wish fulfilment gave.
And wherever fair maids compelling, their voices uplift in prayer.
And the grace they shall ask be granted, let them pray here for his welfare,
Since it was thro' a woman's beauty, that the spell of a woman wrought 255

Love's magic, of senses robbed him — ^Then his charger to halt Kay brought ;
And he spake to the gallant Waleis, ' Sir Knight, since thou thus our king
Hast shamed, thoU shalt hear my counsel, for wisdom perchance 'twill

bring;
Thou shalt hang thee a hempen halter around thy neck straightway,
For so may I lightly lead thee, and take thou with me thy way. 260

Nor think thou, thou canst escape me, but with me unto my lord
Shalt thou go^ as befits a captive, else worse may be thy reward 1 '

By love constrained, the Waleis nor word nor answer spoke,

Kay gripped his spear-shaft tightly and he smote with a mighty stroke

On the hero's head, till the helmet rang loudly beneath his hand ; 965

And he quoth, ' Now will I awake thee ! Dost think here to take thy stand,

And standing sleep unsheeted ? Nay, other shalt thou fare.

Low on the snow I '11 lay thee I The ass that is wont to bear

The sack from the mill would rue it, did one smite him in such wise.

As here I think now to smite thee, and thy sloth and thy sleep chastise t ' 270

Frau Minne, now bethink thee, for sore this shameth thee,
For an one should wrong a peasant, in this wise his speech will be,
' My lord will sure repay thee 1' Vengeance from thee he'ld seek
Methinks, this gallant Waleis, an thou wouldst let him speak 1

I68 PARZIVAL

975 Now let him from out thy circle, and loose him from thy ban,
This stranger guest shalt prove him, a true and valiant man I

SwiA rode Sir Kay unto him, and he turned his bridle lound,
And no more his longing glances their joy and their sorrow found,
The white snow and blood-drops crimson, that mystic likeness bare
380 To the queen of his love and his longing, the Lady of Pelrapär ;
He knew all that passed around him— His charger Sir Kay addrest
To jousting, he spurred him onward, and his spear he laid in rest.

In the joust, that which Kay had aimed at he smote, for his spear did

pierce
The Waleis' shield, yet swift payment was his, for in onslaught fierce

285 The seneschal of King Arthur fell prone on the fallen tree,

Where the geese erewhile had hid them, and hurt full sore was he,
And dead lay his gallant charger— ^'Twixt a stone and the saddle-bow.
Right arm, and left leg had he broken — so mighty his overthrow
That all that had decked his charger, girths, saddle, bells of gold,

^90 By the force of the ML were shattered, thus the stsaupger his payment toKd^
And with one blow, for twain repaid him — ^the one that erst for his sake,
A maiden had borne and the other, which he from Kay's hand most take.

# Thus he who knew naught of falsehood was guided of truth to know
Her message in blood-drops threefold, on the white of the drifted snow.
395 'Twas tear-drops, not blood, that he saw there, and well might his senses &il.
And the thoughts of his* heart wax heavy, as he mused on the wondrous

Grail,
And sorely the semblance grieved him that spake of his wife and queen.
Yet tho' o'er the twain he sorrowed, the greater woe, I ween.
Was the woe that Frau Minne wrought him, for there liveth not heart so
strong,
300 But longing and love united break its power, ere the time be long.

Count we here those twain as ventures? Nay, 'twere better methinks to

hold,
That they were naught but pain and sorrow, that vanquished the hero bold.

Now ye unto whom I tell this, I rede ye to mourn Kay's woe.
For full oft as his manhood bade him, he many a strife did know.

ARTHUR 169

And in many a land they speak thus, that Kay, Arthur's seneschal, 305

Was a firebrand, hell-bom, yet I wot well far other the tale I 'Id tell.

From reproach would I gladly free him, tho' few but should say me nay,

Yet a gallant man and a worthy, I swear was this knight, Sir Kay.

And my mouth to this truth beareth witness, and more would I tell to thee ;

Unto Arthur's Court came strangers in many a company, 310

And their manners and ways were diverse, nor all there might honour claim,

But Kay an he saw false dealing, he counted such ways as shanie.

And his j&ce he turned from the sinner, yet he who dealt courteously,

And true man with true men would hold him, Kay served him right heartily.

And one who lull well discemM the manner of men was Kay, 31^

Thus he did to his lord good service, for his harsh words drave far away
The men who would falsely vaimt them good knights and true to be,
III was he to them as a hailstorm, sharp as sting of an angry bee.
Small wonder that these deny him his honour and knightly fame,
True servant and wise they found him, and for this cause upon his name 320
Their hatred doth still heap slander— Prince Herman, Thoringia's lord,
Thou with vassals that crowd around thee, and strangers who seek thy

board,
Good service might Kay have done thee, since so free art thou aye of hand.
That true men and men dishonoured, side by side in thine hall they stand ;
And therefore Knight Walter singeth, ' Now greeting to all I bring, 325

Men evil and good 1 ' And I trow well, where a singer such song may sing.
There the false are too highly honoured — Nay, for other Sir Kay had taught,
(Yea, and Heinrich of Rispach also) — ^Now hearken ye in what sort
On Plimizöl's plain men bare them ; from the field Sir Kay was borne
To the tent of his king, and around him, o'er his ill-fate his friends did 330

mourn ;
And maiden and knight they stood there ; to the tent where his comrade lay
Came Gawain, and he quoth in sadness, * Alas I for the woeful day
That so in a joust was ridden that hath robbed me of a friend I '
Then out spake Kay in his anger, ' Now make of thy moan an end.
If comfort thou here wouldst bring me, do not as the women do, 335

Since thou art my monarch's nephew I I would do to thee service true.
As of free heart I ever did it, in the day that God gave me power,
Nor long for my aid hadst thou prayed me ! There cometh, perchance, an

hour »

I70 PARZIVAL

When I, as of old, may serve thee : now cease thou thy moan I pray,
340 For tho' mine be the pain, yet my monarch shall ne'er find another Kay,
And I wot that for mine avenger art thou all too nobly bom ;
An yet hadst ißu>u lost a finger I had counted myself forsworn
An I risked not mine head to pay it ! Let that be as it may,
Believe me or not, as shall please thee, yet sooth are the words I say ! '

345 ' No joust shalt thou ride at my urging, for roughly he greets his foe,
Who holdeth without his station, and rideth nor swift nor slow.
And I think me, of maidens' tresses, tho' frail be such cord and fair,
Enough from such strife to bind thee, the chain of a single hair !
And the man who shall show such meekness, he well doth his mother love,

350 Since his sire would fain in the conflict his knightly mettle prove.
But follow thou aye thy mother, Sir Gawain, list well her rede,
Turn thou pale at the glancing sword-blade, and shrink from the manly
deed 1 '

And thus on the gallant hero the bitter words he spake
Fell sharply, he looked not for them, nor on Kay might he vengeance
take,
355 Full seldom a knight may do so, since shame on his lips setteth seal.
But they who thus speak discourteous, such shame shall they never feel.

Then Gawain he quoth in answer, ' Where men knightly sword might bear.
And have foughten, and I fought with them, then no man beheld me there,
And saw that my cheek waxed paler at sight of wound or blow.
360 I was ever thy friend--'twas needless that thou shouldst reproach me so ! '
Then he strode from the tent, and he bade them bring hither his charger

good,
Nor spur on his heel he buckled, unarmed he his steed bestrode.

So came he unto the Waleis (whose sense was of love held fast).
And his shield to all eyes bare witness of three spears thro' its circle
passed,
3f^S For three jousts of late had he ridden, and he rode them with heroes twain.
Of Orilus too was he smitten — Then gently uprode Gawain,
And he spurred not his steed to gallop, nor conflict nor strife he sought.
For he rode but in love and in kindness, to seek him who here had fought.

ARTHUR 171

Fair spake Gawain the stranger, to greeting deaf was he,

Frau Minne yet held him captive, how other might it be ? 37©

True son of Herzeleide, to this lot was he bom,

To lose himself for love's sake ; such passion as had torn

The hearts of these his parents, afresh in his heart awoke.

And but little his ear might hearken what the mouth of Gawain spoke.

Quoth King Lot's son unto the Walcis, * Sir Knight, here thou doest ill 375

In that thou withholdest greeting — tho' patient I wait thy will
Far otherwise can I bear me 1 Know thou that to friend and king.
Yea, to all whom I count my fellows, thy deed doth dishonour bring.
And our shame ever waxeth greater ; yet prayed I for thee this grace,
The king of free heart forgives thee, if now thou shalt seek his face. 3^

So hearken, I pray, my counsel, and do thou as I shall say.
And ride thou with me to King Arthur, nor too long shalt thou find the
way.'

Nor threatening nor prayer might move him, this fair son of Gamuret :
Then the pride of King Arthur's knighthood his memory backward set,
And he thought of Frau Minne's dealings, and the time when the knife's 385

sharp blade
He drave thro' his hand unwitting, thro' the love of a gracious maid.
And that time when from death's cold clutches, a queen's hand had set him

free.
When of Lähelein was he vanquished, and captive in joust was he,
And a queen in the day of his danger must pledge her fiur life for his.
And her name shall of men be praised. Queen Ingus of Bachtariiess. 390

Thought Gawain, * It may be Frau Minne dealeth so with this goodly man,
As she dealt with me of old time, so claspeth him in the ban
Of her magic spells fair-woven, that his spirit within the snare
She holdeth fast entangled ' — Then his eyes on the snow-flakes fair
He cast, and he knew the token, and swift from the spell-bound sight 395

With cloth of £äir silk and sendal, he covered the blood-drops bright

The blood-stained snow was hidden, nor longer its spell was seen.

And his sight and his sense unclouded she gave him, his wife and queen ;

Yet his heart did she hold in her keeping, and its dwelling was Pelrapär,

And be cried aloud in his sorrow thro' the silent sununer air ; 400

I7a PARZIVAL

* Alas ! who of thee hath robbed me, who erewhile wast my queen and wife,
For thy love, thy crown, and thy kingdom my right hand hath won in strife.
Say, say, am I he who saved thee from Klamid^ the warrior king ?
Yea, sorrow and bitter sighing, and grief that the heart doth wring
405 Are the guerdons I won in thy service, and now from mine eyes be-dazed
Art thou reft, and thy place I know not, tho' but now on thy face I gazed.'

Then he quoth, ' Now, where shall my spear be, since I wot well I brought

it here?'
Quoth Gawain, * A joust hast thou ridden, and splintered shall be thy spear.'
' With whom should I joust ?' quoth the Waleis, 'thou bearest nor sword nor
shield,

4x0 And little had been mine honour, an thou to my hand didst yield I
Yet bear I awhile thy mocking, nor will I thy friendship pray,
Tho' many a joust have I ridden, yet my saddle I kept alway.
An thou be not for jousting minded, and I find not in thee a foe.
Yet the world lieth wide before me, and hence on my way I go ;

4x5 For labour and strife am I seeking and fain would I win me praise.
Be anguish or joy my portion ; nor unfruitful shall be my days.'

Quoth Gawain, ' What I spake aforetime I spake of true heart and free.
Nor my thoughts were the thoughts of evil, for well would I deal with

thee;
And the boon that I crave will I win me, my monarch with many a knight
4» Lieth here at hand with his anny, and with many a lady bright.
An it please thee. Sir Knight, to betake thee to our goodly company,
From all strife shall this right hand guard thee, and gladly 1 11 ride with

thee.'
^ I thank thee, Sir Knight, fair thou speakest, yet say ere with thee I ride.
Who the monarch may be whom thou servest ? and who rideth here at

my side ? '

435 'A man do I hail as master, thro' whose fame much £une I won.

Nor here shall my mouth keep silence on the things he for me hath done.
For dear hath he ever held me, and as true knight did me entreat :
(His sister King Lot hath wedded, and the twain I as parents greet.)
And the good gifts God gave unto me, to his service I yield them all,

430 For my hand and my heart he ruleth, whom men do King Arthur call

ARTHUR 173

Nor mine own name need here be hidden, nor a secret shall long remain,
For the folk and the lands that know me, they call on me as Gawain :
And £un would I do thee service, alike with my hand and name,
If thou turnest here at my bidding, nor bringest upon me shame ! '

Then he quoth, * Is it thou, O Gawain ? too little I yet have done 435

That thou shouldst as a friend entreat me ; yet hast thou this honour won

That all men thou gently treatest->and thy friendship I here will take,

Yet not for mine own deserving, but repayment I fain would make.

Now say where thine army lieth, since so many tents I see

That stand fair by the brink of the river ? If King Arthur in truth shall be 440

So near, then must I bemoan me, that in honour I may not dare

To enter his royal presence, or look on his queen so fair.

Since 'tis meet that I first avenge me of a foul and discourteous blow.

For which, since the day I left them, I sorrow and shame must know.

For a maiden as she beheld me, laughed sweetly, the seneschal 445

For my sake smote the maid so sorely, 'twas a wood that upon her fell.'

' Rough vengeance thou here hast taken 1 (Gawain to the Waleis spake)
Since thou in a joust hast felled him, and right arm and left leg he brake.
Ride here, see his charger lifeless, that lieth the stone below ;
On the snowdrift behold the splinters of the spear that hath dealt the 450

blowl
'Tis the spear thou but now wast seeking*!' Then the truth knew Sir

Parzival,
And straightway he spake unto Gawain, ' Now, if this be the seneschal.
And the man who so sorely shamed me, if thou swear me that this was he.
Thou mayst ride where thou wilt, and gladly will I ride in thy company I '
* Nay, never a lie do I tell thee,' quoth Gawain, * thou hast overthrown 455

Segramor, who ere now in battle was ever as victor known.
He fell ere yet Kay had met thee : great deeds hast thou done to-day,
Since o'er two of our bravest heroes the prize thou hast borne away.'

So rode they, the one with the other, the Waleis and Knight Gawain,

And the folk, both afoot and on horseback, with honour would greet the 460

twain,
Gawain and his guest the Red Knight, this did they of courtesy,
And the twain to his frdr pavilion they gat them right speedily.

174 PARZIVAL

I

And the lady, fair Kunnewaax^ whose tent by Gawain's did stand,
Rejoiced, and she joyful greeted the hero, whose strong right hand

465 Had Med not to wreak stem vengeance for the ill that Kay wrought that
day;
Then her brother and fair Jeschut^ she led by the hand straightway.
And Pandval looked upon them as the three to his tent drew near.
And his foce, thro' the rust of his armour, it shone ever fiaür and clear,
As roses dew-dipped had flown there : his harness aside he laid, g

470 And he stood before Kunnewaar^, and thus spake the gentle maid :

' To God shalt thou first be welcome, as welcome thou art to me,

Since thy manhood thou well hast proven, and the faith that I had in

thee!
Ere the day that my heart beheld thee, nor laughter nor smiles I knew.
And Kay, who in that hour smote m^ with stem hand my gladness slew.
475 But now hast thou well avenged me I With a kiss I thy deed would pay.
If I of thy kiss were worthy 1 ' * Nay, so had I thought to-day
To crave of thy lips my payment,' quoth Parzival, * if thou still
Wilt give me such gracious greeting, right gladly I '11 do thy will I '

Then she kissed him, and down they sate them, and the princess a maiden
sent

43o And bade her to bring rich raiment ; so sped she unto the tent ;
And the garments they lay there ready, of rich silk of Nineveh,
For her prisoner. King Klamid^, had she fashioned them cunningly.
Then the maiden who bare the garments, full sorely must she bewail
That the mantle was yet unfinished, since the silken cord did fail

4B5 Then the lady, Kunnewaard, from her side drew a silken band

From the folds of her robe, in the mantle she wove it with skilful hand.

Then courteous her leave he prayed him, the rust would he wash away.
And fair shone his face, and youthful, and his lips they were red that

day.
Aiid robed was the gallant hero, and so bright and so fair was he,
490 That all men who there beheld him, they sware he for sure must be
The flower and the crown of manhood, a knight without shame or fear ;
And they looked upon him, and they praised him and his colour waxed
bright and clear.

'

ARTHUR 175

And right well did his garb become him ; an emerald green and rare,

The gift of lair Kunneward, as clasp at his neck he bare ;

And a girdle beside she gave him, all wrought in a cunning row 495

With mystic beasts, bejewelled, that burnt with a fiery glow,

And its clasp was a red-fire ruby — How think ye the beardless youth

Was seen when thus richly girded ? Fair was he in very sooth,

For so the story runneth— the folk bare him right goodwill, .

Men and women who looked upon him, they counted him worthy still. 500

Forthwith, as the Mass was ended, came Arthur the noble king,

And the knights of his Table with him, a goodly following.

No man there whose lips spake falsehood. Yea, all heard the word that

day,
*■ With Gawain the Red Knight dwelleth ! ' the king thither took his way.

Then the knight who so sore was beaten came swiftly, Sir Antanor, 505

For, fain to behold the Waleis, his feet sped the king before,

And he asked, 'Art thou he who avenged me, and the lady of fair Lalande?

Now vanished shall be Kay's honour, for it falleth unto thine hand.

And an end hast thou made of his threatening, and the days of his strife are

o'er.
For his arm it is weak, and his vengeance I fear for it never more 1 ' 510

And so fair was. the knight and radiant, that all men beheld his face

As an angel from heaven, that wingless, abideth on earth a space.

And well did King Arthur greet him, and his knights were no whit behind,

And all they who looked upon him, naught but love in their hearts might

find,
And their lips to their heart made answer, and all spake to his praises, * Yea,' 515
And no man gainsaid the other, so lovely his mien that day I

Then Arthur spake &ir unto him, ' Thou hast wrought me both joy and pain,

Yet ne'er from the hand of a hero such honour I thought to gain

As the honour that thou hast brought me ! yet no service I did to thee.

An I did, then thy fame had repaid it, tho' no other thy deeds should be 530

Than the deed thou hast done in the winning for Jeschut^ her husband'^

grace !
Nor Kay's guilt had been unavenged, if ere this I had seen thy face

176 PARZIVAL

Myself had, unasked« chastised him.' Then Arthur in this wise spake,
' Since so fax they had come, and their journey had they taken but for his sake,
595 They all with one voice did pray him, to swear to them brotherhood.
And be one of the gallant Table, a comrade both true and good.'
And their prayer it seemed good unto him, and joyful at heart was he,
And he sware them the oath that they asked for, and their knight would he
gladly be.

Now hear ye, and speak the verdict, if on this day the Table Round
530 Its right, and its due observance had here, as aforetime found ;
Since for many a day King Arthur in this wise had ruled his court.
No knight should break bread before him^if there came of fair venture naught
But enough should have chanced this morning, and to Table they well might

go»
Though from Nantes might they never bear it, yet they here would its

semblance show.

535 Wide enow was the flowery meadow, nor hindered them tree or tent,

As they did here their monarch's bidding — for this was his heart's intent,

Fair honour to give the Red Knight, and his valour, as meet, reward —

Then a silk in Acraton woven, they laid on the grassy sward,

Twas brought from far lands of paynim, and 'twas shapen both wide and

round ;

540 For ever this courteous custom mid these gallant knights was found.

No high seat had they of honour, but all men were equal there ;

' And thus had King Arthur willed it, both the knights and their ladies fair

At the Table Round were welcome, yea, an they might honour claim,

Knight, lady, or gentle maiden, at his court all should fare the same !

545 And there, with her maiden following, came fair Guinevere the queen.
And many a noble princess amid her train was seen.
And none but was fiiir to look on, and the ring it was spread so wide
That within, without strife or crowding, each maid sat her knight beside.
And Arthur, who ne'er knew falsehood, led the Waleis by the hand,

550 And Kunnewaar^ she walked beside him, the lady of £ur Lalande,

From sorrow the knight had freed her— Then, with kind and friendly eyes.
Looked Arthur upon the hero, and he spake to him in this wise :

* My queen will I bid to kiss thee, who art fair both of form and face.
For ne'er, in this court, of lady I ween wouldst thou crave this grace.

ARTHUR 177

Since from Pelrapär thou hast ridden, and wert thou on kissing bent 555

From lips of all lips the £urest, hast thou there thy foil heart's content !

Yet this one grace will I pray thee» if ever there dawn the day

That I find 'neath thy roof abiding, this kiss I may then repay ! '

* In sooth, will I do thy bidding,' qnoth the Waleis, ' both thereiand here I '

Then unto the gallant hero stepped the Lady Guinevere, 5^

And fair on the lips she kissed him, and she quoth, ' Here I pardon thee

The ill thou aforetime didst me, and the sorrow thou gavest me.

Thou didst leave me sorely grieving, when from hence thou didst ride away.

By thy hand and thy dart my kinsman Prince Ither was slain that day I'

And all tear-bedewed were the eyelids of the Lady Guinevere, 5^5

For Prince Ither's death wrought sorrow unto many a woman dear.

Now must King Klamid^ seat him, on the bank by Plimizöl,

And beside him sate lofreit, who was son unto Kmg Idol ;

And 'twixt Klamid^ and Gawain must the Waleis have his place —

And they know who tell the venture, none sate here of royal grace, 57«

None who woman's breast had suckled, whose fiune stood so high and fair.

For courage and youthful beauty did the Waleis, as jewels, wear.

And they owned, who there looked upon him, that many a maiden bright

Saw herself in a darker mirror than the lips of this fiiir young knight

And on cheek and on chin his colour might well as fetters be 575

For those who should need such fetters, whose £uicy flitteth free.

Here might there be naught of changing— (of women my rede I trow

For some they are ever wavering, and ever new friendships know 1)

But his look ever constant held them, till I wot well that thro' their eyes

His entry he gained triumphant, and made of their hearts his prize I 5^

Thus maiden and man beheld him, and his honour all men did praise.
Till he found here the goal of sighing, and the end of his joyous days.
For hither came one I must tell of, and faithful was she in truth
Tho' discourteous her ways, and for sorrow, I ween, had she little ruth I
And the folk for her message sorrowed — Now hear how the maid must ride, 5^5
Her mule it was tall as a war-horse, and branded on either side ;
And its nostrils were slit as is custom in the far land of Hungary,
Yet her harness and bridle were costly, with rich work broidered cunningly.
Soft and slow paced her mule, yet the maiden was not as a maid, I trow.
What sought she ? She came as 'twas fated, and sorrow must Arthur know. 59o
VOL. I. M

178 PARZIVAL

And of wisdom forsooth this maideli might boast her a wondrous store,
No tongue but she spake, French, Latin, and Paynim : in all such lore
As men read in the highest heavens, Dialectics, Geometry,
In all was she courteous trainM, and her name it was called Kondrie.
595 < The sorceress' did men name her, nor her speech halted on its way,
Too ready her tongue, since rejoicing she smote into grief that day.

This maiden, so rich in wisdom, bare little of maiden grace.

No lover e'er praised her beauty, no tongue spake her fair of face.

A tempest she, joy destroying, yet of bridal cloth from Ghent

^ Did she wear a mantle, bluer than azure the soft tints blent.

As a cap was it fairly fashioned, such as maidens in France shall wear,

And beneath it, around her body, a silken robe she bare.

And a hat of the English peacock, with silk of orient lined,

And new was the hat, and the fastening, and it hung low the maid behind.

^5 And like to a bridge her message, that sorrow o'er joy had crossed.
And shame enough did she bring them, till laughter in tears was lost.

In a thick plait above her headgear had she flung her tresses back,
And adown on the mule were they hanging, so long, and so coarse, and black.
Nor softer to touch than the bristles, which swine on their backs shall show.
6io And her nose as a dog's was shapen, and from out her mouth did grow
Two tusks as had 'seemed a wild boar, a hand's-breadth long were they ;
And above her eyes the eyebrows as thick as plaits they lay.
And I speak but the truth, as I needs must, tho' my words lack in courtesy
Since I speak of a maid, yet, for such cause, none other reproacheth me.

6x5 And ears as a bear had Kondrie, and never the eye might trace
A shy glance of love, or of longing, I ween in that wondrous face.
And a scourge did she bear, and the handle was a ruby, of silk the cord ;
And the hands of this winsome maiden like a lion's were sharply clawed,
And the skin as an ape's was dusky, and the nails they were not too light,

620 And I ween, for her maiden favours, but seldom would heroes fight !

So rode she unto the circle, and her coming did sorrow bring.
And fair joy did she put in peril — ^Then turned she unto the king,
(And Kunnewaar^ sat beside him, his table-mate was she.
And fair Guinevere, his consort, a queen bare her company.)

ARTHUR 179

Thus in royal state King Arthar as monarch sat that day— ^S

To the Breton king rode Kondrie, and in French did she speak alway ;
And tho' I in another language than hers shall the venture tell,
Yet I rede ye to wit that the telling it pleaseth me none too well ! .

' Thou son of high Pendragon, thyself, and thy Breton host,

By thy deed hast thou shamed— From all lands the noblest that they might 630

boast
Once sat here a gallant circle, but poisoned is now their fame.
And thy Table Round dishonoured by traitor, and brought to shame.
King Arthur, o'er all thy fellows, thy praises of old stood high.
But it sinketh now, thy glory, and thy fame, that did swiftly fly.
Henceforward goeth halting ; thine honour doth seek the ground 635

Since it showeth stain of falsehood— The fame of thy Table Round
It suffereth for the friendship ye with Parzival did swear,
Tho' I wot well the outward token of a spotless knight he bear.
" The Red Knight " ye here do call him, the name of one who lay
Dead before Nantes, yet I tell thee unlike in their life are they ! 640

For no mouth hath read of a hero whose fame knew nor fault nor flaw,
As his 1 ' From the king she turned her, and did rein by the Waleis

draw,

And she quoth, ' Now sore shalt thou rue it, since I, for thy sake deny

My greeting unto King Arthur, and the knights of his company.

May thy fair face be dishonoured, and thy manhood I look on here. 645

Of forgiveness and joy were I merchant, in sooth shouldst thou buy them

dear!
And I deem thou art but a monster, and myself shall far fairer be !
Speak, Sir Parzival, as I bid thee, and this riddle read thou to me.
When thou sawest the fisher sit there, joyless, of comfort reft.
Why didst thou not loose his sighing ? Why was he in bondage left ? ' 650

* For he showed thee of his sorrow— Oh ! thou false and faithless guest,

For hadst thou had pity on him, his anguish had gotten rest.

I would that thy mouth might perish, yea, the tongue thy mouth within,

For e'en as the heart the tongue is, in thine hear^ is the root of sin.

To Hell shalt thou be predestined, by the Ruler of Heaven high, 655

And this be on earth thy portion, that true men thy face shall fly.

i8o PARZIVAL

And ban hast tfaoa wmi for blessing, and for Uiss shalt tbou find but bale,
For too late dost thoa strive for honour, and thy striving shall naught avail
And so feeble shall wax thy manhood, and thy fame it shall be so weak,

660 That never shall souPs physician the promise of healing speak.

An one to the oath should drive me, on thine head were I fain to swear,
That never a darker treason was wrought by a man so fiur.
Thou hook in £ur feathers hidden, bright serpent with poisoned feng,
Who ne'er of the sword was worthy, which thine host at thy side did hang !

665 The goal of thy sins, this thy silence, of Hell's horde art thou now the sport,
And dishonour upon thy body, Sir Paisival, hast thou wrought
Saw'st thou not how they bare before thee the Grail, and the bleeding spear.
And sharp silver? Thy joy's destruction, and thy shelter from grief were
here!'

' Yea, hadst thou but asked at Monsalväsch ; afer, in a heathen land,
670 Rich o'er all earthly riches, doth the town of Tabronit stand ;

Yet the riches thy speech had won thee had been greater fer, I ween —
And with gallant strife of knighthood the hand of that country's queen
Feirefis Angevin hath won him : no fear doth his manhood stain ;
One father, I ween, hath borne ye, yet unlike shall ye be, ye twain.
675 And thy brother is strange to look on, for both white and black his fece,
And at Zassamank he reigneth o'er the folk of his mother's race.'

* And my thoughts to thy sire are turning ; his country was feir Anjou,
And he left thee bar other heirdom (for his heart never felsehood knew,)
Than the heritage thou hast won thee, and the crown of an evil fame t

680 And could I but think thy mother had wrought here a deed of shame

I had said that Mis child thou wert not ! Yet her feith it but wrought her

woe,
And of her naught but good be spoken 1 And thy fether, as all men know,
In his manhood was true and steadfest, and in many a distant land
He won for him meed of honour, and his praise o'er all men did stand.

685 For great heart and little felsehood as a roof did defend his breast,
A dam 'gainst the flood of evü, and a home for his love to rest
And in manly strength and courage was his honour for aye held fast,
But iAy truth it is turned to felsehood, and thine honour to earth is cast I
Alas ! for the day I heard it, alas 1 for the moumfol tale,

690 That the child of feir Hersdeide in knighthood and faith should feiL'

ARTHUR i8i

She herself was the prey of scHnow, and her hands cUd she wring anudn.
While the teardrops they chased each other down her chedcs like a shower

of rain.
And her eyes they gave faithful witness tc the grief that her bosom filled.
For of tme heart she spake, the maiden, nor e'en then was the sorrow stilled.

Then unto the king she turned her, and she spake * Is there here a knight ^5

Who yeameth for love's rewarding, and for honour and fame would fight ?

For I know of four queens, and maidens four hundred, and all are fair.

In Chateau Merveil is their dwelling ; and like to the empty air

Shall be all knightly ventures to the venture that Burg within,

Yet he who shall face its peril, from true love shall his guerddn win. 700

And tho* far be that Burg and distant, and weary and rough the way,

Its walls must I seek if haply I reach them ere close of day.'

And sad was the maid, not joyful, nor courteous she bade farewell.

But weeping she gazed around her, and she cried as the teardrops fell,

* Ah i woe unto thee, Monsalvasch, thou dwelling and goal of grief, 7^5

Since no man hath pity on thee, or bringeth thy woe relief ! '

Thus had the sorceress Kondrie, that maiden fierce and proud.
Wrought evil upon the Waleis, and his fame to the earth had bowed.
Naught they helped him, his bold heart's counsel, his manhood and knightly

fame,
And high o'er all other virtues, the virtue of knightly shame. 710

(For folsehood he ne'er had hearkened,) and true shame doth rewarding

bring.
And it crowneth the soul with honour as the circlet doth crown a king.
And he who true shame doth cherish his work shall for ever stand —
Then she lifted her voice o'er the maidens, the maiden of fair Lalande,
And she wept for the words of Kondrie, and the sorrow of Parzival, 7x5

For the fairest of men did she deem him ; and swiftly the teardrops fell
From the eyes of many a woman, for the sake ofthat hero bold.
And they sorrowed at heart, and their weeping must many a knight behold !

Now sorrow had Kondrie brought them ; and e'en as her way she went
Another must ride towards them on a warlike errand bent ; ^20

A knight of a haughty bearing, and his harness was fair to see.
From his foot to the goodly helmet, and royal its cost must be.

i82 PARZIVAL

And richly plumed was the helmet ; and, e'en as the man, the steed
Was clad in such glittering armour as serveth for knightly need.

795 And he found them, both man and maiden, heavy and sad at heart.
As he rode nigh unto the circle ; hear ye how he bare his part —
Tho* his mien it was high and haughty, yet his heart it was full of woe.
Of the twain shall ye learn the reason ; thro' his manhood he pride must know.
Yet grief to his heart taught mourning — Thus rode he unto the ring,

730 Were it well he should come within it ? Then squires to his aid did spring,
And the gallant knight they greeted, yet were he and his shield unknown.
Nor he doffed from his head the helmet, and sorrow was his alone ;
And his hand bare a sword unsheathed, and he asked for those heroes twain,
'Where are they whom I fain. would speak with. King Arthur and Knight
Gawain?'

•

735 Then straight thro* the ring he passed him, and a costly coat he bare,
And 'twas wrought of silk all shining, in Orient woven fair ;
And before the host he halted as he sate there within the ring,
And he spake aloud, ' God's favour be on thee, thou gracious king.
And upon these knights and ladies — To all whom mine eyes here see,

740 I offer, in greeting, service, yet be one from my greeting free ;
For ne'er will I do him service, nay, rather I choose his hate.
If ill-will he beareth to me, mine ill-will with his may mate ! '

' And 'twere well that I name him to ye. Alas I alas ! woe is me !

My heart he so sore hath wounded, mine anguish o'er-great shall be !
745 And here doth he sit, Sir Gawain, whom all men were wont to praise.

High standeth his fame, yet dishonour it ruleth, methinks, his ways ;

Since avarice to this betrayed him, in greeting my lord he slew.

The kiss once by Judas given, it taught him such guile anew.

Many thousand hearts hath he wounded — 'Twas murder base, abhorred,
750 And he, upon whom he wrought it, erewhile was my dearest lord.

An Sir Gawain would here deny it; true answer our strife shall yield,

Forty days from to-day shall he meet me, and face me on battlefield.

Before Askalon's king and ruler, in the city of Schamfanzon ;

Thus I bid him in honour face me, and for conflict his armour don.'

755 ' And this grace shall he not refuse me, but thither his shield shall bear ;
And yet further shall he bethink him, by the helmet he weareth fair.

ARTHUR 183

And the life that a knight beseemeth, who two treasures in pledge doth hold,
True shame, and a faith unwavering, and their fame shall be new, as old.
But from shame may Gawain ne'er free him, if a knight of the Table Round,
Whose heroes stand here before me, he thinketh he may be found. 760

For its honour and fame are vanished, if false knight sit its board beside —
Methinks ye have heard mine errand, and ye know I came not to chide.
For here would I not blame, but battle, and death shall my guerdon be,
An it be not a life of honour, that Good Fortune shall hold for me !'

Then sad was the king and silent, yet answer at last he gave, 765

* Know, Sir Knight, that Gawain is my nephew, and myself would the conflict

brave
Ere his bones should lie dishonoured — If Good Fortune by Gawain stand
In strife shalt thou well acknowledge, 'neath the might of his strong right

hand
That his body in faith he keepeth, and falsehood afar doth hold.
If another hath done thee evil methinks art thou over-bold, 770

His shame dost thou speak too loudly, who never hath done thee ill —
If he winneth, perchance, thine homage, and thou ownest him guiltless still.
Yet hast thou in short space spoken such words of a blameless knight
As have shamed for aye thine honour, if this folk read the thing aright ! '

Then upsprang the proud Knight Beaucorps, brother to Gawain he, 775

And he spake in his wrath, ' Wouldst thou fight him ? Then myself his

pledge will be,
For thou speakest false of Gawain ; and know that thy words of shame
Have kindled anew within me fierce wrath's devouring flame.
An thou speakest not Gawain guiltless of all dishonour, I
Stand here to fight his battle, and to be his surety. 780

Think not by thy words of scorning to lower his lofty fame,
Unstained is Gawain's honour, and thy words are but words of shame ! '

Then he turned him to his brother, and he spake of true heart and free,

' Bethink thee now, my brother, of all thou hast done for me,

Thou hast helped me unto the winning of fame, for thy toil's reward ^g^

Bid me here to be hostage for thee, and bid me thine honour guard.

If Good Fortune be here my portion, and I win here my meed of fame,

Then Mm be the crown of honour, and thy foeman hath naught but shame.'

iS4 PARZIVAL

By his knightliood and love as a Ixrother he besought him right earnestly ;
790 Qaoth Gawain, ' Now in sooth, my brother, too irise shall I surely be
To hearken to thee, and to grant thee what thou askest of right good-will ;
What meaneth this strife, I wot not, and of fighting have had my fill,
Of good-will would I ne'er deny thee what boon thou from me shouldst crave,
Yet shame must I bear ibr ever if this conflict Ilail to brave 1'

795 Yet Beaucorps he prayed him straitly— then out spake the stranger knight,
* A man whom I ne'er have heard of now lusteth with me to fight !
I spake not of A/jn^ and no evil, methinks, hath he done to me.
Strong, gallant and fiur to look on, and fitithful and rich is he,
And well might he be my hostage, yet against kim no wrath I bear^

800 My lord and my kinsman was he for whose death I this strife declare,
And brothers twain were our others, as comrades and kinsmen true ;
And were he a crownM monarch against whom my sword I drew,
By my birth might I give him battle, and vengeance of right demand.
Of a royal race, and a princely, was I bom in a distant land.

805 And Askalon is my country, I am Landgrave of Schamfanzon,
Kingrimursd do they call me ; if Gawain's £une be not outrun
No otherwise may he free him, but conflict with me must dare.
Yet safe-conduct throughout my kingdom, from all save my hand, I swear.
In peace may he ride, and safety, to the field where I vengeance claim ;

8x0 God keep in His grace those I leave here, save one, and ye know kis name V

So passed he, the gallant hero, from the plain of Plimizöl,
And e'en as his name was nam^ all men knew Kingrimursel,
For the fame of this knight so valiant was known thro' the fu lands wide.
And it seemM them well that to Gawain might ill thro' this strife betide
8x5 When they thought of the strength and the manhood of this knight who rode
swift away.
And many must sorely vex them that no honour he won that day ;
Yet full often a message cometh, I myself shall such venture know.
Of such wise, that the guest who bears it, of his host must ungreeted go !

From Kondrie they heard the tidings of Parzival's name and kin,
8ao How a queen, she had been his mother, and his sire was an Angevin.
And they spake— ^ Twas at fiur Kanvoleis, and the story we know full well.
He served her with deeds of knighthood, and many a joust befell.

ARTHUR i8s

And there by hb dauntless manhood he won him that lady bright ;

And the noble Queen Anflis^ she taught him> that gallant knight,

Such courtesy as befitted a hero of lineage high ; 895

And no Breton but shall rejoice him, that his son now draweth nigh,

For of him, e'en as of his fiither, may this tale of a truth be told

That honour is his yoke-fellow, as she was of his sire of old.'

Thus joy alike and sorrow came to Arthur's host that day,

And mingled, the life of the heroes, since the twain they must have their way. Sjo

Upstood they all as one man, and all with one voice they wept,

And the bravest knights among them within the drde stept.

And they looked on Gawain and the Waleis where each by the other stood.

And they wove them fiur words of comfort to pleasure the heroes good.

But Klamid^ the king bethought him that the loss which should be his share 835

Was greater than that of another, and too sharp was his pain to bear,

And to Parzival he quoth thus, * If the Grail thee for lord must own,

Yet still would I mourn my sorrow, and of true heart my woe make known.

For the kingdom of Tribalibot, and Kaucasus* golden strand.

Whatsoe'er shall be writ of riches in Christian or paynim land, 840

Yea, even the Grail and its glory, they had £ulM the hurt to cure

Which at Pelrapär was my portion, or the grief that I here endure I

Ah me I Of all men most wretched am I since thy valiant hand

Of joy and of blessing robbed me t — See the princess of fair Lalande,

Know thou that this noble lady she keepeth such £uth with thee, 845

That no service else she craveth, and none other knight will she ;

Yet well might she crown his service who served her for love alcme !

And that I am so long her captive, methinks may she well bemoan.

If my joy thou to life wouldst quicken, then give me thine aid, I pray.

And teach her herself to honour in such wise that her love repay 850

In a measure the ill thou didst me, and that which thro* thee I lost,

When the goal of my joy fled from me and my pathway by thee was crossed.

But for thee, I, methinks, had reached it, and if thou art foeman true

Thou wilt help me with this fair maiden, and my gladness shall wax anew! '

* Right gladly will I,' quoth the Waleis, ' if so be she will grant my prayer, 855
For £un would I bring thee comfort, since umiM b that maiden hir
For whose sake thou sore didst sorrow, my wife and my queen is she,
Kondwiramur, the fiurest of all women on earth that be !'

i86 PARZIVAL

Then the heathen Queen of lanfiis, King Arthur, and Guinevere,
^60 Kunnewaar^ of Lalande, and Jeschut^ of Kamant, who these words must hear,
Came near with sweet words of comfort — ^what would ye they should do more?
Kunnewaar^ they gave to Klamid^ who yearned for her love so sore,
And he gave her, as her rewarding, himself, his body &ir,
And a queenly crown and golden henceforth on her head she bare 1

865 Quoth the heathen unto the Waleis, ' Kondrie a man hath named,

Whom thou as in truth thy brother, rejoicing, might well have claimed ;
For far and wide he ruleth in the power of a double crown,
And alike by land and water men in fear to his hand bow down.
And Assagog is one kingdom, Zassamank shall the other be,

870 Two mighty lands and powerful from fear and from weakness free.
And naught shall be like his riches save those the Baruch doth own,
Or those of far Tribalibot, he is worshipped as God alone !
A marvel his skin to look on, and like unto none his foce.
For 'tis black, and 'tis white, as his parents, who sprang of a diverse race.

875 Thro' one of his lands I journeyed as hither I took my way,

And full fain had he been my wanderings in a far-off land to stay.
Yet but little his will prevailM, tho' I am his near of kin.
The cousin unto his mother, and ^ is a mighty king !
Yet hear thou more of his prowess ; his saddle no man may keep

8B0 Who rideth a joust against him, and fame doth he richly reap.
And no gentler knight or truer e'er lay on a mother's breast.
And falsehood it fleeth from him, and truth in his heart doth rest.
Yea, true and fair in his dealings is Feirefis Angevin,
And women he serveth duly, tho' he pain thro' his service win I '

885 *Tho' all men to me were strangers, yet hither I came to know
What ventures of gallant knighthood a Christian land might show ;
And of all Heaven's gifts the highest, I ween, shall thy portion be.
And Christendom winneth honour thro' the praise it doth give to thee.
And thine is a noble bearing, and £ur is thy form and foce,

890 And in thee beauty mates with manhood, and strength doth thy youth
embrace ! '
(Both rich and wise was the heathen, and of wisdom she token gave.
In the French tongue her speech was holden.) Then out spake the hero
brave.

I

ARTHUR 187

And he quoth, * God reward thee, Lady, who thinkest to comfort me,

Yet sorrow it fast doth bind me, and the cause would I tell to thee,

For the shame that has here befallen thuik not I shall lightly bear, ^5

And here many sin against me, who give to my plaint no ear.

The while I must list their mocking 1 — No joy shall my portion be

Or long or short be my wanderings, till the Grail once again I see 1

For my souPs unrest constrains me, and it driveth me on my way,

Nor so long as my life endureth shall my feet from their wanderings stay ! ' 900

* If a courteous and knightly bearing but bringeth rewarding still

In shame, and in this world's mocking, then methinks I was counselled ill !

For 'twas Gumemanz who bade me of questions rash beware,

And from words and ways unfitting a courteous knight forbear.

Here standeth fuU many a hero, I pray ye give counsel true, 905

By your courtesy and knighthood, that your grace I may win anew.

Here hath judgment been passed upon me with bitter words and strong —

Who withholdeth from me his favour, I deem not he doth me wrong ;

If perchance, in the days hereafter, fame and honour my lot shall be

Then according to those my dealings, I pray ye to deal with me ; 910

But now must I haste far from ye — An oath have ye sworn me here

While I stood in the strength of mine honour ; ofthat oath do I hold ye clear

Till the day I have won me payment for my fresh joy waxed wan and pale ;

And my heart shall be home of sorrow, nor tears to mine eyes shall fail,

For the day that at far Monsalväsch my labour I left undone, 915

And myself from all joy I severed, and woe for my guerdon won.

Ah God ! they were fair, those maidens ! and ne'er was there wonder tale

That men told, but as naught its marvels to those of the wondrous Grail !

Yet torment so sore^ and sighing, are the lot of Its king, alas I

Small good hath my coming done thee, thou hapless Anfortas ! ' 920

Nor longer the knight might linger, but part they must alway.
So turned he unto King Arthur, and leave he fain would pray
Of him, his knights, and ladies, with their favour would he depart,
And none, I ween, but sorrowed that he rode hence sad at heart.

Hand in hand King Arthur sware him, if henceforth his land should bear 925
Such woe as Klamid^ brought him, then the shame he with him would
sharei

i88 PARZIVAL

And he spake that loll sore it gneved him that crowns and kingdoms twain.
With the riches that were their portion» Lähelein from the knight had ta'en.
And service hoth troe and üsüthfiil many sware mito him that day,
930 £re yet from the court of King Arthur, sorrow-driven, he passed away.

Then the fair maid Kunnewaar^ she took the hero bold,
And hence by the hand she led him, and in this wise the tale is told,
Sir Gawain he turned and kissed him, and be spake out in manly wise
To the hero strong and gallant : * Now thou ridest in warlike guise,
935 And thy feet shall be swift to battle— <xod guide thee upon thy way.
And give me such strength to serve thee tis my heart shall be £un alway/

But Parzival cried, * Woe is me 1 Who is He, this mighty God ?

Had He power,then methinks our portion had ne'er been this shame abhorred!

Small power shall be His ! I served Him from the day I first knew His
grace,
940 Henceforth I renounce His service ; doth He hate me, His hate I ^11 fnct t

And, friend, in thine hour of peril, as thy shield may a wi/^s love stand.

Dost thou know her for pure and holy, then the thought of her guide thine
, hand.

And her love from all evil guard thee,— as I wish, may it be to thee.

For little I wot of the future, if thy face I again may see ! '

945 And their parting it brought them sorrow, for comrades in ill were they.
With the maiden Kunnewaard, to her tent must he take his way.
And she bade them bring his harness ; with her hands so soft and white.
She bound the armour on him who had served her as faithful knight.
And she spake, *'Tis my right to do this, since it is thro* thy deed alone

950 That Brandigan's gallant monarch now daimeth me as his own.
For otherwise thy valour but bringeth me grief and pain,
Art thou not against sorrow arm^ then thy loss shall outweigh my gain I '

For battle decked was his charger, and his sorrow must wake to lifo.
And foir was the knight to look on ; and the harness he bare for strife
955 Knew never a flaw, but was costly, and as sunshine 'twas white and foir,
And radiant with gold and jewels the corslet and coat he ware.
But the helmet alone was lacking— ere he bound it upon his head.
In the self-same hour he kissed her, Kunnewaar^ the gracious maid.

I

ARTHUR 189

And this of the twain was told me, that the parting was sore to see

Twixt those two who loved each other in all honour and loyalty. 9^

So hence let him ride, our hero, and what ventures a man may tell

He shall measure them not with the ventures that to Gamuret*s son befell

Yet hear ye awhile of his doings, where he journeyed and whence would

ride —
He who loveth not deeds of knighthood, if counsel he take of pride
For awhile will forget his doings — On thee, Kondwiramur, 565

On thy fair face and lovely body, thy lover thought evermore.
What ventures he dared in thy service as knightly the Grail he sought !
Nor tarried he in the seeking but onward his way he fought.
The child of fur Herzeleide, and knew not that he was heir
To the glories that he rode seeking, to the Grail and Its palace feir ! 970

Then forth went full many a vassal on a toilsome and weary way,

To gaze on the wondrous castle where in magic fetters lay

Four hundred gracious maidens, and four queens, right fair to see.

Chiteau Merveil was the castle ; and no hate shall they earn from me,

I grudge them naught they may win there ! No woman rewardeth me, , 975

For she to whom I do service, from payment hath set me free !

Then out spake the Greek, Sil Klias, * Yea, there was I overthrown ! '

(And thus in the ears of all men did he franldy the truth make known)

^ For the Turkowit he thrust me from my chaiger unto my shame ;

And four queens who there lie captive the knight unto me did namie ; 980

And old are the twain, and the others as yet they shall children be,

And the first maid is called Itonj^, and the second shall be Kondrie,

And the third she is named Amiv^ and Sangiv^ the fourth is hight 1 '

Then &in to behold the wonders of that castle was many a knight.

Yet their journey brought little profit, for sorrow overtook them there. 985

Yet I mourn not overmuch for their 'sorrow ; for he who would labour bear.

And strife, for the sake of a woman, for guerdon shall gladness know,

Tho' grief shall be mixed with his gladness, and his joy shall be crossed with

woe.
And I know not the which shall be stronger, or if sorrow shall joy out-
weigh,
But so runneth the world for ever, where Frau Minne she holdeth sway ! 990

190 PARZIVAL

Now Gawain he must make him ready, and he girded his armour on,
For the strife that a&r should wait him, in the kingdom of Askalon.
And sad was many a Breton, and ladies and maidens fair
Of a true heart did they bemoan them that Gawain must to conflict fore.

995 And orphaned and reft of glory henceforth was the Table Round.

Then Sir Gawain he well bethought him, since victor he would be found.
And he bade the merchants bring him good shields both hard and light,
And little he recked their colour so they served his need in fight
On laden mules they brought them, and methinks that they sold them dear ;

looo And three did he take as his portion — ^and the hero he chose him here
Seven chargers well fit for battle, and he chose him as friends so good
Twelve spears of sharp steel of Angram, and the hilts were of hollow wood.
They were reeds grown in heathen marshlands, Orast Gentesein their name.
Then Gawain he prayed leave, and rode forth, dauntless, to seek him £ame,

1005 And with royal hand, for his journey. King Arthur he gave the knight
Red gold, and rich store of silver, and jewels gleaming bright.
And heavy the weight of his treasure — ^Then the hero rode swift away,
And I ween 'twas towards sore peril that his pathway must lead that day.

Then she sailed to her distant kingdom, the young Queen Ekuba,
loio I speak of the heathen princess ; and they scattered to lands a£Bir

The folk who awhile abode there, on the foir plain of Plimizöl ;

And King Arthur and all his courtiers they gat them to KaridoL

Yet first they prayed leave, Klamid^ and Kunnewaar^ of fair Laland,

And Duke Orilus and his lady, Jeschut^ of Kamant
Z015 Yet till the third day with Klamid^ in the plain did the twain abide.

And the marriage-feast was holden ere yet from the place they ride.

Yet small was the pomp ; in his kingdom, I ween, should it greater be.

And free was his hand and knightly, and he dealt right courteously,
f For many a knight at his bidding henceforth must his man remain,
xoao And many a wandering minstrel did he gather within his train,

And he led them into his kingdom, and in honour, rich gifts, and land

He gave unto them, nor churlish would any refuse his hand.

Now Duke Orilus and Jeschutd, to Brandigan the twain would fare
For the love that unto Klamidd and Kunnewaare they bare.
1025 For they thought them that fitting honour to their sister they scarce had done
Till as queen they had seen her crownM, and set on the royal throne.

ARTHUR 191

Now I know well if wise the woman, and true of heart she be,
Who seeth this story written, of a sooth will she own to me
. That better I speak of women than I spake of one erewhile ;
For true was fair Belakan^, and fr^e from all thought of guile, 1030

For dead was her love, yet lifeless he still o'er her heart did reign.
And a dream filled fair Herzeleide with torment of fear and pain.
And Queen Guinevere bewailed her full sorely for Ither's death,
(And little I grudge her mourning, for no truer knight e'er drew breath).
And I wot when King Lac's fair daughter rode forth such a shameful ride 1035
Then sorely I mourned the sorrow that, guiltless, she must abide.
Sore smitten was Kunnewaar^, and torn was her golden hair ;
Now the twain they are well avenged, and glory for shame they bear !

And he who doth tell this story, he weaveth his ventures fair,

And he knoweth right well to rhyme them, in lines that break and pair. 1040

And fain were I more to tell ye, an she give to my words good heed

Who treadeth with feet far smaller than the feet that shall spur my steed !

BOOK VII

OBILOT

VOL.L

N

ARGUMENT

The poet will now for a while recount the adventures of Gawain ;
whom many have held to be as valiant a knight as Paraval.

Book vii. tells how Gawain fell in with the army of King Meljanz of
Lys, who would fain avenge himself on Duke Lippaut, whose daughter had
scorned his love. How Gawain came to the beleaguered city of Beaurosch ;
how Obie scorned him ; and how Obilot besought him to be her knight.
How the heroes fought before the walls of Beaurosch, and of the valiant
deeds of Gawain and the Red Knight. How Gawain took Meljanz of
Lys captive ; how Obilot made peace betwixt Obie and Meljanz, and how
Gawain rode forth from Beaurosch.

B O O K V I I
OBILOT

WHILE shall this venture follow the knight, who to fly was fain
From shame, nor with guile had dealings, that hero bold,

Gawain.
For many a one hath held him for as brave, yea, for braver
knight

Than Parzival, who the hero of this wonder-tale is hight
Yet he who his friend would ever with his words to the heavens upraise 5

Is slow to speak well of another, or to yield him his meed of praise ;
But him shall the people follow whose praises with truth are wrought,
Else whatever he speak, or hath spoken, shall ne'er under roof be brought.
Who shall shelter the word of wisdom if wise men their aid withhold ?
But a song that is woven of falsehood is best left in the outer cold, ^^

Homeless, upon the snowdrift, that the mouth may wax chill and sore
That hath spread for truth the story — such rewarding hath God in store
As all true folk must wish him whose guerdon in toil is told— -
Who is swift to such deeds, I wot me, but blame for reward shall hold.
And if good men and true shall praise him, then folly doth rule their mind ; 15
He will flee such who true shame knoweth, and in knighthood his rule
would find.

And true of heart was Sir Gawain, for courage as sentinel

Had guarded his fame, nor shadow of cowardice across it fell.

But his heart in the field of battle was strong as a mighty tower,

Steadfast in sharpest conflict, yet foremost in danger's hour. ao

And friend and foe bare witness to the fame of his battle-cry ;

Fain was Kingrimnrsel to rob him of his glory thus waxen high —

Now far from the court of King Arthur for many a weary day,

I know not their tale to tell ye, did the valiant Gawain stray ;

196 PARZIVAL

95 So rode he, the gallant hero, from out of a woodland shade,

And his folk they were dose behind him as he wended adown the glade,

And there on a hill before him he was 'ware of a goodly sight

That would teach him fear, yet fresh courage it brought to the gallant knight

For the hero he saw full clearly how a host on their way would fare
30 With pomp of warlike pageant, and banners borne high in air.

Then he thought, ' I too far have journeyed this host in the wood to wait ' —
And he bade them prepare the charger that was Orilus' gift of late,
And red were its ears, and Gringuljet, I think me, they called its name,
Without a prayer he won it — The steed from MonsaWäsch came,
35 Lahelein, in a joust he took it, when lifeless its rider fell

By the Lake of Brimbane — Hereafter Trevrczent would the story tell.

Thought Gawain, ' He who cowardly flieth ere the foe on his track shall be
Flieth all too soon for bis honour — this host would I nearer see
Whatever may then befall me ; they have seen me ere this I trow,
40 And, for aught that may chance unto me, wit shall counsel me well enow.'
Then down he sprang from his charger as one who his goal hath found.
Countless I ween the army that in troops was toward him bound.
And he saw many robes fair fashioned, and shields with their blazon bright.
But he knew them not, nor the banners that danced on the breezes light.

45 * Strange shall I be to this army,' quoth Gawain, ' strange are they to me.
If they count this to me for evil then a joust shall they surely see.
And a spear will I break with these heroes ere yet on my way I ride ! '
Gringuljet too was ready when his master would strife abide.
In many an hour of peril he the hero to joust had borne,

50 As Garwain had well bethought him when the steed he would ride that mom.

There Gawain saw many a helmet, costly and decked full fair,

And new spears white, unsplintered, in sheaves to their goal they bare ;

To the pages hands were given those blazoned with colours clear.

And the badge might ye read on the pennons that floated from every spear.

55 And the son of King Lot, Sir Gawain, he saw there a crowded throng,
There were mules with harness laden ; heavy wagons with horses strong.
And they hasted them, fain for shelter ; and behind them a wondrous store
Of goods, borne by travelling merchants as was ever the way of yore.

OBILOT 197

And women were there in plenty, and of knightly girdle bright

The twelfth might some wear, the payment and pledge of love holden light. 60

Not queens were they hight, I think me, Vivandterh was their name—

And young and old behind them a rabble onward came,

And they ran till their limbs were weary ; and a rope had fit guerdon been

For many who swelled this army, and dishonoured true folk I ween !

So they rode, and they ran, that army, and Gawain stood beside the way, ^5
So it chanced they who saw the hero deemed him part of their host that day.
And never this side of the water, or in lands that beyond it lie,
So gallant a host had journeyed, great their strength and their courage high.

And close on their track there followed, spurring his steed amain,

A squire of noble bearing, with a led horse beside his rein ; 70

And a fair new shield he carried, and ever his spurs he plied,

Nor thought to spare his charger, but swift to the strife would ride,

And his raiment was fairly fashioned — Then Gawain his pathway crossed.

And; greeting, he asked him tidings, who was lord of this goodly host ?

Quoth the squire, ' Sir Knight thou mockest, were I lacking in courtesy, 75
And have chastisement earned, then I pray thee that my penance shall

other be
That shall wound not so sore mine honour— For God's sake lay thine hate

aside,
Methinks thou right well shalt know them, these knights that before us ride,
Why askest thou me ? Of a surety to each other shall ye be known
As well, nay, a thousand times better, than I unto thee had shown ! * ^

Then many an oath he sware him, he knew not the race or name

Of the folk who went there before him, ' My journey hath won but shame.

Since in truth must I make confession that never before to-day

Mine eyes have beheld these heroes, tho' mine aid men right oft would pray !

Then the squire he quoth unto Gawain, * Sir Knight, mine the wrong hath 85

been,
Thy question I should have answered, here my wisdom hath failed I ween !
Now pass judgment on me, I pray thee, of thy friendly heart and true,
Hereafter I '11 gladly tell thee, first must I my folly rue.'
' Then, lad, by thy words of repentance, sure token of courtesy,
The name of this gallant army I prithee to tell to me 1 ' 90

198 PARZIVAL

' Sir Knight, he who rides before us, and no man his way doth bar,
Is King Poidikonjonz ; and beside him Duke Astor he rides to war,
Of Lanveronz is he ruler—and there rideth beside the twain
One whose roughness and ways discourteous Love's payment have sought
in vain.

95 He beareth the brand unknightly, Meljakanz that prince is hight.
He wooeth nor wife nor maiden, but their love will he take with might,
And, methinks, men for that should slay him — Poidikonjonz' son is he,
And here will he fight with his army, and he fighteth right valiantly.
And dauntless his heart ; but such manhood it profiteth naught, I trow —

xoo An ye threaten, perchance, her sucklings, she fighteth, the mother sow !

»

And never a voice shall praise him whose strength lacketh knighthood fair.
And methinks to the truth of my speaking many men will their witness bear.'

' Now hearken to greater marvels, and mark thou the words I say,
One with a mighty army doth follow upon our way
los Whom folly doth drive to battle— The young King Meljanz of Lys,

Scorned love wrought in him fierce anger, and pride vexed him needlessly,'

And courteous he spake to Sir Gawain. * What I saw, I Sir Knight will say :
The sire of the young King Meljanz, as he on his death-bed lay,
He bade them draw near unto him, the princes from out his land,

no For his gallant life lay forfeit, a pledge in stem Death's cold hand,*
And to Death he needs must yield him — In grief o'er his coming end
To the faith of the princes round him his son would the king commend.
And he chose out one from among them, tlie chief of his vassals true,
And his faith was proved and steadfast, and from false ways afar he flew.

IZ5 And he gave the lad to his keeping, and he quoth, ' Now, with hand and heart,
True service henceforward show him, bid him aye act a kingly part
To vassal alike and stranger ; bid him list to the poor man's prayer.
And freely give of his substance.' Thus he left him unto his care.'

' And Prince Lippaut did as his monarch, dying, of him did pray,
120 Nor failed in aught, but true service he did to his lord alway.

And he took the lad to his castle, and the prince had two children fair,
He loved them well, and I think me, e'en to-day they his love shall share.
One maiden in naught was lacking, save in age, that a knight might crave
Her love for his love's rewarding ; Obie was the name they gave

OBILOT 199

To this maid ; Obilot, her sister ; and the elder maid, I ween, 135

Hath wrought ill, for she, and none other, the cause of this strife hath been.'

* It so fell that one day the young king for his service reward would pray,
Twas an ill thought, she quoth, and she asked him why his wits he had

cast away ?
And she spake unto him, * I think me, e'en if thou so old shouldst be,
That 'neath shield thou the hours hadst counted that in worthy strife might 130

flee ; .
With helmet on head hadst mingled in knightly venture bold,
Till the tale of thy days, if reckoned, full five years more had told ;
If there thou hadst won thee honour, and hither hadst come again.
And bowed thyself to my bidding, if z yea I to speak were fain
To that which thou now desirest, all too soon should I grant thy prayer — i35
Thou art dear, I will ne'er deny it, as Galoes to Annora fair ;
For death did she seek, and I think me that her seeking was not in Vain,
When she lost him, her well belov^ and her knight in a joust was slain.'

* Now sore doth it grieve me, Lady, that love worketh so in thee.

That thine anger with words of scorning thus venteth itself on me. 140

For true service,' quoth he, ' winneth favour, an love thus be well approved ;
O'er-weening thy pride thus to taunt me that madness my speech had moved I
Small wisdom in this thou showest, 'twere better thou hadst bethought.
How thy father is but my vassal, and save of my grace hath naught ! '

' For that which he holds can he serve thee,' she spake, ' higher is my aim, 145
For fief will I hold of no man, none shall me as vassal claim !
And so high do I prize my freedom that no crown it shall be too high,
That an earthly head e'er weareth t ' Then he spake out wrathfully,

* Methinks thouhastbeen well tutored, that thy pride shall have waxed so great.
An thy father such counsel gave thee, then penance on wrong shall wait— 130
'TIS meet that for this I arm me, some wounded shall be, some slain,

An they call it or war, or Tourney, many spears shall they break in twain ! '

* Thus in anger he left the maiden, and all did his wrath bemoan.
Yea, full sore it grieved the lady— Her father must well atone,

Tho' he sware as his lord reproached him, guiltless of wrong was he, 155

(Or straight were his ways or crooked, his peers should his judges be.

PAR2IVAL

All the princes in court assembled) — ^that he to this strait was brought
Thro* no sin of his own — And eager the prince from his lord besought
His ÜLVour and love as of old time, but in vain he for peace might pray,
x6o For anger it ruled the monarch, and his gladness was reft away.'

' Tho' hasty the prince they counselled a prisoner to make his lord,
His host had he been, and such treason of a true knight were aye abhorred.
Farewell, the king ne'er bade him, but he rode forth in wrath and pride.
And his pages, the sons of princes, aloud in theit sorrow cried.

1^5 Long time with the king they dwelt there, and goodwill they to Lippaut
bare.
For in truth did he aye entreat them, nor failed them in knighthood fair.
'Tis my master alone who is wrathful, tho' he, too, Lippaut's care might claim,
A Frenchman, the lord of Beauvais, Lisavander they call his name.
And the one alike and the other, ere a knight's shield they thought to bear,

170 Must renounce the prince's service, and war against Lippaut swear ;
And some shall be prince's children, and some not so highly bom.
Whom the king to the ranks of knighthood hath lifted, I ween, this mom.'

' And one who in strife is skilful and bold doth the vanguard lead,
Poidikonjonz of Gros, and with him hath he many an armed steed.
»75 And Meljanz is son to his brother ; and haughty of heart the twain.
The young as the old, I think me discourtesy here doth reign ! '

' Thus these two kings, moved by anger, will forth unto Beaurosch ride,
Where with toil he would win the favour that the maid to hts love denied.
And there with thmst and onslaughti shall be broken many a spear ;
i8o Yet so well is Beaurosch guarded that, tho' twenty hosts were here.
Each one than our army greater, it ne'er to our force would yield !
The rear-guard knoweth naught of my journey, from the others I stole this

shield.
Lest perchance my lord should find here a joust, and with onslaught fierce
And clash of the meeting chargers the spear thro' his shield might pierce.'

t8s Then the squire he looked behind him, and his lord on his track did ride,
Three steeds and twelve spears unsplintered sped onward his rein beside.
And I ween that his haste betrayed him, he would fain in the foremost

flight
The first joust for his own have challenged, so read I the tale aright.

OBILOT 20I

Then the sqaire he spake unto Gawain, 'Thy leave I, Sir Knight, would pray/

And he turned him again to his master — ^What should Gawain do ahiray 190

Save see how this venture ended ? Yet awhile he doubted sore,

And he thought, ' If I look on conflict, and fight not as aye of yore,

Then methinks shall my fame be tarnished ; and yet if I here delay,

E'en tho' it may be for battle, then in sooth is it reft away,

My meed of worldly honour — To fight not, methinks, were best, 195

First must I fulfil my challenge.' But afresh doubt vexed his breast,

For he deemed that his warlike errand but little might brook delay.

Yet how could he take his journey thro' this army that barred his way ?

And he quoth, ' Now God give me counsel, and strengthen my manhood's

might,'
And on to the town of Beaurosch rode Gawain as gallant knight. 200

So before him lay Burg and city ; fairer dwelling no man might know ;

Already it shone before him with its turrets in goodly row.

The crown of all other castles — Before it the army lay

On the plain 'neath the walls of the city ; thro' the lines must he take

his way,
And right well be marked, Sir Gawain, many tents in a goodly ring, 205

And strange banners waved beside them, which strange folk to the fight

would bring ;
And doubt in his heart found dwelling, by eagerness cleft in twain —
Then straight thro' the host encamped there rode the gallant knight Gawain.

One tent-rope it touched the other, tho' the camp it was long and wide,
And he saw how they lay, and he noted the task which each one there plied. 210
Quoth they, * Soit Men venu^ then * Gramercy * iht knight for an answer gave —
And troops from Semblidag lay there, hired soldiers both strong and brave ;
And closely they camped beside them, the archers from Kahetei —
And strangers are oft unfriendly ; As King Lot's son he passed them by
No man of them all bade him tarry, so he rode o'er the grassy plain, 215

And toward the beleaguered city Sir Gawain he turned his rein.

Then he thought, ' Must I e'en as a smuggler, in hiding-place bestow
My goods, then the town is safer, methinks, than the plain below,
i Nor on gain shall my thoughts be tumM, for this be my care alone.

An Fate will so far befriend me, to guard that which is mine own ! ' 220

203 PARZIVAL

To the city gate he rode thus, and he found that which worked him woe,
None too costly the Boigers deemed it, bat their portals against the foe
Had they walled up ; well armed the watch-towers, and he saw on each

rampart high
Archers, with cross-bow bended that their bolts 'gainst the foe might fly.
235 For defence and defiance ready on the battlements they stood.
Up the hillside toward the castle he turned him, that hero good.

Tho* little he knew the pathway to the Burg came the gallant knight.
And straightway his eyes beheld them, full many a lady bright.
For the prince's wife had come there, from the hall abroad to gaze,
23p And daughters twain stood by her, bright as the sunlight's rays.

Then they spake in such wise as Gawain right well their words might hear —
' Now, who is this,' quoth the mother, ' who doth to our aid draw near ?
Where goes he with pack-horse laden ? ' Spake the elder daughter fair,

* Nay, mother, 'tis but a merchant t ' ' Yet he many a shield doth bear.'

235 ' Such shall oft be the wont of merchants ! ' Then the younger sister spake,

* Thou sayest the thing that is not, and shame to thyself shouldst take,
For surely he is no merchant ! My knight shall he be straightway,

If his service here craveth guerdon, such debt I were £un to pay ! '

Now the squires they saw how a linden and olive-trees stood £siir
240 Beneath the walls, and they thought them how a welcome shade were there.
What would ye more ? Then King Lot's son he straight to the ground did

spring
Where the shade was best, and his servants, they swift to their lord would

bring
A cushion fair and a mattress, and the proud knight he sat thereon ;
From on high gazed a crowd of ladies — Then, as he his rest had won,
345 They lift adown from the pack-steeds the chests, and the harness bright.
And beneath the trees they laid them who rode here with the gallant

knight.

Spake the elder duchess, * Daughter, what merchant think thou would fare
In such royal guise ? Thou wrongest his rank who now sitteth there I '
Then out quoth the younger sister, * Discourteous she aye shallbe,
350 With pride and scorn did she treat him, our king, Meljanz of Lys,

OBILOT 203

When her love he besought — ^unseemly such words and ways I trow ! '
Then spake Obie, for anger moved her, * I see naught in that man below 1
There sitteth, methinks, a merchant, and he driveth a goodly trade ;
He would that they well were guarded, the chests that his steeds do lade,
And like to a brooding dragon, O foolish sister mine, 355

O'er his treasure-chest he watcheth, this gallant knight of thine ! '

And each word that they spake, the maidens, fell clear on Gawain's ear —
Leave we their speech, of the city and its peril ye now must hear.

A water that ships had sailed on 'neath a bridge of stone flowed past,

And the land here was clear of foemen, nor its flood held their armies fast. 960

A marshal came swiftly riding 'fore the bridge on the plain so wide.

And a goodly camp had he marked out ere his lord to the field should ride.

And he came e'en as they were ready, and with him came many more —

I will tell ye their names who, for truth's sake, and the love they to Lippaut

bore,
Here rode to his aid — His brother, men called him Duke Marangliez, 265

And two swift knights came with him from the land of Brevigariez ;
King Schimiel, the gallant monarch who ware crown in Lirivoin,
And with him there rode his brother, the monarch of Avendroin.

Now when the Burgers saw well that help drew anigh their wall

They deemed that an evil counsel which aforetime seemed good to all — 270

Then out spake their lord, Duke Lippaut, 'Alas ! for the woeful hour

That Beaurosch must seal its portals against the foeman's power !

Yet if I against my master in open field had fought.

Then mine honour, methinks^, were smitten, and my courtesy brought to

naught
His grace would beseem me better, and gladden me more, I ween, 275

Than the hatred which now he showeth, of such hate have I guiltless been.
A joust that his hand had smitten but little would grace my shield,
Or if ^1^ of the sword bare token that I 'gainst my king would wield.
Methinketh, tho' wise the woman, she were shamed an she praised such

deed —
Yea, say that my king were captive in my tower, I my lord had freed, ^^

And myself had become his prisoner—what had pleased him best to do
Of evil, I 'Id gladly bear it, as befitted a vassal true,

1

204 PARZIVAL

And I thank my God of a true heart that I here, a free man, stand,
Tho' spurred by love and anger my king doth invade my land ! '
285 Then he quoth again to the Burgers, ' Now may wisdom with ye be found
To counsel me in the perils that compass my path around.'

Then many a wise man answered, ' Thou hast wrought in no wise amiss,
Might innocence win its guerdon, then thou never hadst come to this.'
Then all with one voice they counselled that the gates be opened wide,

990 And that he should bid their bravest forthwith unto jousting ride.
And they quoth, *• So to fight were better than thus our ramparts high
To defend 'gainst our king, and the armies twofold that around us lie.
For the most part they are but children who ride with their king to-day,
And 'twere easy to take a hostage, so wrath oft is turned away.

395 And the king he shall be so minded, that if here knightly deeds be done,
He shall free us perchance from our peril, and the ending of wrath be won.
Far better in field to seek them than forth from our walls be brought
As their captives^Nay, e'en to their tent-ropes, methinks, we with ease

had fought
Were it not for the King Poidikonjonz, 'neath his banner the bravest fight ;

300 And there is our greatest peril, the captive Breton knights,

Duke Astor it is who leads them, and foremost in strife are they ;

And the king's son is there, Meljakanz ; higher his fame to-day

Had Gumemanz been his teacher ! Yet never he feareth fight ;

But help have we found against them,' — Now their rede have ye heard aright.

305 Then the prince he did as they counselled, the portals he open brake,

And the Burgers who ne'er lacked courage their way to the field would

take.
Here one jousted, and there another ; and the armies they made their way
With high courage towards the city, right good was their vesper-play.
On both sides the troops were countless ; manifold was their battle-cry,

3T0 And Scotch and Welsh might ye hearken, for in sooth here I tell no lie.
And stem were their deeds of knighthood as fitting so stem a fight, -
And bravely those heroes battled, till weary each gallant knight.

And they were little more than children who with the king's army came.
And they took them as pledge in a corn-field, who thought there to win them
fame.

OBILOT 205

And he who had ne'er won token of love from a lady iair^ 3x5

Might never more costly raiment on his yoathfol body bear ;

Of Meljanz the venture telleth that in harness bright he rode,

On high flamed his youthful courage— A charger the king bestrode

That Meljakanz won when in jousting his foe from his steed he swung,

Twas Kay, and so high he smote him that aloft from a bough he hung ; 390

There Meljakanz won the charger that Meljanz would ride that day.

And foremost of all the heroes he strove in the knightly fray.

And Obie beheld his jousting, and watched him with eager eye.

As she stood there among her maidens, and gazed from the palace high.

So quoth she unto her sister, ^ See, sister mine, thy knight 325

And mine^ unlike do they bear them, for thine hath no will to fight.

He thinketh for sure this city and castle we needs must lose.

An here we would seek defenders, other champion we needs must choose ! '

And the younger must bear her mocking— then she spake, ' Yet I trust my

knight.
He hath time yet to show his courage, and thy mockery put to flight. 330

For here shall he do me service, and his gladness shall be my care.
An thou boldest him for a merchant, with me shall he trade full fair ! '

As with words they strove, the maidens, he hearkened, the Knight Gawain,
Yet he made as tho' he heard not as he sat on the grassy plain.
And if knightly soul should hearken, nor feel in the hearing shame, 335

'Twould but be that death had freed him from burden of praise or blame.

Now still lay the mighty army that Poidikonjonz had led.

Save one gallant youth with his vassals, who swift to the combat sped,

And Lanveronz was his dukedom — Here came Poidikonjonz the king,

And the old man wise one and other again to the camp would bring, 340

For the vesper-play was ended — In sooth had they fought right well,

And for love of many a maiden full many a deed befell.

Then out spake the King Poidikonjonz to Lanveronz' gallant knight,

' Twere fitting to wait for thy leader, an thou lusted for fame to fight.

Dost think thou hast borne thee bravely ? See the brave Knight Lahduman, 345

And here is my son Meljakanz, — Came these two in the van.

And I myself, then, I think me, that a fair fight thou sure shouldst see

Wert thou learned enow in combat to know what a fight should be !

206 PARZIVAL

I come not again from this city till of strife we have had our fill,
350 Or man and woman yield them as prisoners to my will ! '

Qaoth Duke Astor, * The king, thy nephew, O sire fought before the gate
With his army of Lys—Should thine army here slumber o'er-long and late
The while these others battled ? Say when didst thou teach such lore ?
Must I slumber while others battle then I '11 slumber as ne'er of yore !
355 Yet believe me, had I not been there then the Burgers had won them fame.
And a fair prize their hand had taken — I have guarded thee here from shame ;
In God's Name be no longer wrathful ! Such valour thy folk have shown.
They won more than they lost, — I think me fair Obie the same will own ! '

Yet Poidikonjonz was wrathfol with his nephew, Mdjanz the king,
3^ Tho' of many a joust the token the youhg knight from the field must bring,
And youthfol fisime ne'er moumeth such pledge of strife, I ween —
Now hear ye again of the maiden who the cause of this strife had been.

Hate enow did she bear to Gawain who was guiltless of ill intent,
And shame would she bring upon him — A servant the maiden sent
365 Below, to Gawain as he sat there, ' Now ask thou, without delay.
If his steeds be for sale — In his coffers, perchance, he doth bear alway
Goodly raiment that we may purchase ; say thou if it so shall be,
Then we ladies above in the castle will buy of him readily.'

So the serving man went, and his greeting was wrath, for Sir Gawain's eye
370 Taught fear to his heart, and in terror the lad from his face would fiy,
And he asked not, nor gave the message his lady had bid him bear.
Nor Gawain held his peace, * Thou rascal, from hence shalt thou swiftly fare,
For many a blow will I give thee if again thou dost dare draw near ! ' t

Then the lad hied him back to his lady ; what she did shall ye straightway
hear:

375 For she bade one speak to the Burg-grave, Scherules they called his name,

Saying, * This shaU he do at my bidding for the sake of his manly fame ;

'Neath the olive-trees by the Burg-moat stand seven steeds, I trow.

In them shall he find his guerdon, and riches beside enow.

A merchant will here deal falsely— I pray he prevent such deed.
380 I trust in his hand ; none shall blame him, if the goods he doth hold for meed.'

OBI LOT 207

The squire went below as she bade him, and his lady's plaint he bare ;

* From knavery must we guard us/ quoth Scherules, * I forth will fare.'
So he rode where Gawain was seated whose courage might never fail,
And he found there all weakness lacking, high heart that for naught would

quail,
And a face so fair to look on — Sehendes he saw him well, ^^^

And his arms and hands so skilful that a knightly tale might telL
And he spake, 'Thou art here a stranger. Sir Knight, sure good wit we

need
Since here thou hast found no lodging ; as sin shalt thou count such deed.
I will now myself be marshal, folk and goods, all I call mine own
That freely shall do thee service ; nor host to his guest hath shown 390

Such ÜEivour as I would show thee.' 'Thy favour,' quoth Knight Gawain,

* As yet shall be undeserved, yet to follow thee am I fain.'

Then Scherules, of honour worthy, he spake of a true heart free,

'Since the office hath fallen to me, thy guardian 'gainst loss I'll be.

If the outer host would rob thee, thou shalt call to thine aid mine hand,' 395

Then, smiling, he spake to the servants whom he saw round their master

stand,
' Now load ye again your harness that never a piece shall fail, •

For hence must we ride, and shelter shall ye find in the lower vale.'

With the Burg-grave he rode. Sir Gawain, nor Obie her wrong would own,

But she sent a minstrel maiden whom her father right well had known, 400

And she bade her bear the tidings, a false coiner had passed that way,

' And goodly and rich is his lading ; by his knighthood my father pray.

Since many a hireling serves him for steed, and garb, and gold.

That he here let them take their payment, 'twere enow, were they sevenfold.'

To the prince did she tell, the minstrel, all that his daughter said — 405

Now to win so rich a booty that his hirelings may be well paid.
The need right well he knoweth who hath ridden forth to war,
And Lippaut, the prince so faithful, by his soldiers was pressed full sore —
Then he thought, ' I must win this treasure or by love or by force to-day.'
And swiftly he rode ; but Scherules, he met him upon his way, 410

' Now whither dost ride so swiftly ? ' 'A knave would I here pursue,
A i^se coiner is he, I think me, if the tale I have heard be true I

2o8 PARZIVAL

Now guiltless in sooth was Gawain, 'twas but thro' his steeds and gold
That suspicion on him had lighted— Then loud laughed the Burg-grave bold»

415 And he quoth, ' Nay, sire, they misled thee, they lied who thus told the tale
Were it wife, or man, or maiden — Nor knighthood my guest shall fiiil.
Far otherwise shalt thou judge him, no die he methinks shall hold ;
Ne*er bare he the purse of the changer, if the tale shall iaright be told.
Look thou on his mien, and hearken his word, in my house is he,

420 An knighthood aright thou readest then thou knighthood in him shalt see.
And ne'er was he bold in falsehood — Whoever hath done him wrong,
An my child it were, or my father ; whose wrath waxeth fierce and strong.
An my kinsman it be, or my brother, then the rudder of strife shall turn
'Gainst myself, for I will defend him from the wrong that he ne'er did earn,

425 If I with thy will may do so. The knight's garb would I gladly change
For the hermit's robe of sackcloth, and afar thro* the wide world range
In a land where none may know me, than here thou shouldst reap thee

shame!
Methinks it would better fit thee to welcome such guests as came.
Who have heard the tale of thy sorrow, than to rob them of goods and gold ;

430 'Twould better beseem my master as treason such deed to hold !'

The prince spake, ' I fain would see him.' ' Methinks 'twill not harm my
guest.'

So he rode where he looked on Gawain, and two eyes and a heart con-
fessed

(The eyes and the heart of Lippaut) that the stranger was fair to see.

And knighthood and manly virtue the mate to his mien should be. ^

435 Whosoe'er, by true love constrained, hath felt of true love the pain.
Then his heart, as right well ye know it, doth forfeit to Love remain.
And ^o doth she change and rule it that no mouth can the wonder speak.
Be it heart of man or of maiden on which she her will would wreak.
And the wise doth she bend to folly. Now the twain they were lovers
true,

440 King Meljanz and maiden Obie — His anger ye needs must rue,
• Since in wrath he had ridden from her ; of sorrow such load she bare
That her spirit was moved to anger unfitting a maiden fair.
And, guiltless, must Gawain suffer, and others must feel her pain ;
She had womanly ways forsaken when she gave to her wrath the rein.

i

OBILOT 309

Whene'er she beheld the hero as a thorn was he to her sight, 445

For her heart was fain that Meljanz be held for the bravest knight,

And she thought, ' Doth he bring me sorrow, then sorrow I '11 gladly bear,

O'er all the world do I love him, my hero, so young and fair.

And my heart for his love aye yeameth.' Oft anger h*om love doth grow,

Nor blame ye o'er-much the maiden if her love she by wrath would show. 450

Now list how he spake, her father, as he looked on the Knight Gawain

And bade him a kindly welcome — In this wise he spake again,

' Sir Knight, it may be that thy coming the dawn of our bliss hath been ;

Thro' many a land have I journeyed, but no face have I ever seen

So fair to mine eyes as thy face. In this our day of grief 455

Thy coming shall bring us comfort, thro' thee may we find relief

Then he prayed him take part in the conflict — ' If harness shall lack to thee

All thou needest will I prepare thee, so here thou wilt fight for me.'

Then out quoth the gallant Gawain, ' That would I of right goodwill,

I am strong, and well armed for battle, yet from strife must I hold me still, 460

Nor fight till the hour appointed ; or else would I gladly fare

As thou farest, the fate of battle with thee were I fain to share.

But now must I needs forego it, for 'tis fitting I first should fight

With the foeman to whom I pledged me on mine honour as faithful knight

By the favour I claim from all true knights my fame must I there defend 465

Or die on the field— To this conflict. Sir Knight, I my way would wend ! '

Then a grief were his words to Lippaut, and he quoth, * By thy knightly fame.
And thy courtesy, do thou hear me, for free shall I be from blame.
Two daughters have I, and I love them, and dear to my heart are they.
In the joy God in them hath given would I live to my dying day. 470

Yea, well is me for my children, tho' sorrow thro' them I win.
And the one of my two fair daughters methinks hath her share therein,
And unlike, tho' alike, we share it— for thro' Love doth my lord and king
Work sorrow to her, and thro' Hatred his forces 'gainst me would bring.
And thus do I read the riddle, my lord worketh ill to me, 475

Since a son I lack, but I wot well that my daughters shall dearer be.
What, then, if for them I suffer? Then my woe do I count for weal—
Who hath never an heir save his daughter, tho* the sword ne'er her grip may
feel,
VOL. I. O

210 PARZIVAL

Yet other defence may she bring Mm, she may win him a son and heir ;
4^ And such is my hope I ' — Quoth Gawain, ' God grant thee this fiivour fair !'

Then Lippaut he sorely pressed him, * In God's name give thy pleading o'er,'
Spake the son of King Lot, ' I pray thee, of thy courtesy ask no more,
Nor let me betray mine honour — Yet this will I do, Sir Knight,*
I. will think the thing o'er, and my answer shalt thou have ere it draw to night.'

485 Then he thanked him, the prince, and he rode forth ; in the courtyard he
found alway
His child with the Burg-grave's daughter ; with rings did the maidens play.
^ Now, daughter mine, whence camest thou ?' thus to Obilot he spake,
'Father, I came from the castle, to the strange knight my way I 'Id take,
I would pray him as knight to serve me, methinks he will hear my prayer,

490 And do for my sake such service as winneth rewarding fair ! '

' Nay, I fear me,' my little daughter, for he saith me nor yea, nor nay,
But plead thou as I have pleaded.' To the guest did she run straightway.

So came she to Gawain's chamber, he greeted her courteously.
At her fairy feet he sat him, and thanked her that, maidenly,
495 She spake for him to her sister ; and he quoth, * Now if ever a knight
Had fought for so small a maiden, I were ready for thee to fight ! '

Then the little maiden tender spake out so frank and free,
' Sir Knight, as God is witness, the first man thou aye shalt be
With whom I have held free converse ; if in this my maiden shame

500 And my courtesy I wrong not, then joy as reward I. claim !

For ever my mistress taught me how speech is the crown of thought,
And I pray thee. Sir Knight, to help us — Thro' sorrow thine aid I sought ;
An thou wilt, all our need I '11 tell thee, nor do thou be wroth with me,
For I do as befits a maiden, and my prayer to fnyse// shall be.

505 For altho' our name be diverse, yet methinks that ikou art /,
Take thou my name, and maiden and knight art thou verily.
This grace from us both do 1 pray here, and if I from hencd must go
Ashamed, and my prayer unanswered, then. Sir Knight, I would have thee

know
That thy knightly fame must answer to thy knightly courtesy,

510 Since my maidenhood sought for shelter in vain in thy chivalry.

OBILOT 211

But if thou indeed wilt hearken, and do me this thing I ask,

With a trae heart true love 1 11 give thee as rewarding for knightly task.'

' And art thou true man and courteous, then surely thou It do my will.

For see, wilt thou serve a maiden, I am worthy thy service still.

Tis true that my father kinsman and cousin for help hath prayed, 515

But for that shalt thou not refuse us, for my love shalt thou give thine aid ! '

Then he quoth, * Thy lips, sweet maiden, would bid me my word forswear,

Wouldst have me my pledge to forfeit ? On my knightly honour fair

I pledged my word — ^An I fail me, 'twere better methinks to die.

Yet, e'en an I did thee service for thy love, still long years must fly 590

Ere yet thou shalt be a woman, and my service might well approve.'

Then he thought how Parzival trusted less in God than in woman's love,

And the words he spake bare the message of the maid unto Gawain's heart ;

And he vowed to the little lady to bear arms on her baler's part,

And, laughing, he spake, ' My sword-blade thy little hand must guide, 525

If my foeman a fair joust seeketh, then thou must against him ride ;

And for me shalt thou strive in conflict, for tho' men think they see me fight

Yet iAou in my stead shalt have battled, — so keep I my pledge aright.'

Then she spake, *That will I, right gladly, thy shelter and shield I '11 be,
Thine heart, and thine heart's best comfort, since from grief thou hast set me 53^

free.
Thy friend will I be and comrade, and whatever chance betide,
A roof 'gainst misfortune's stormcloud, safe dwelling wherein to hide.
True peace this my love shall give thee. Good Fortune to thee I '11 bring ;
That-thy strength may by naught be vanquished, I '11 guard thee 'gainst host

and king.
Host am I alike and hostess— To combat I '11 ride with thee, 535

An thou keepest my words in remembrance strength and bliss shall thy

portion be.'

Then out quoth the gallant Gawain, ' Yea, maiden, the twain I '11 shaie,
Since my life I vow to thy service, thy love and thy comfort fair.'
And the hand of the little maiden the while in his strong clasp lay-
Then she quoth, ' To fulfil mine office I must hence to the Burg away, 540

213 PARZIVAL

Wouldst thou fare forth without my aidii^, and without my token fight ?
Nay, for that all too dear I hold thee — My part will I play aright,
And my token I will prepare thee, and if thou my pledge shalt bear
Then I wot well that o'er all others thy glory shall blossom fair.*

545 Then they went forth, the little maidens, and Gawain, the stranger guest,
They thanked with sweet words and kindly, and thus he his speech addrest,
'When older ye twain shall be waxen, were they spears, every woodland

bough,
And the forest bare naught but spear-shaftd, then too poor were the crop, I

trow!
If yotir childhood shall thus be powerful, what then of your maidenhood ?
550 For your favour brave knights shall shatter both strong shield and spcar-
shaft good ! '

Then forth sped the little maidens, and their hearts they were glad and gay;
And she spake, the Burg-grave's daughter, * Lady, I prithee say
What wilt give to thy knight for a token, since naught but our dolls have we ?
An mine were but somewhat fairer I would give it right willingly
555 Nor be wroth with thee for the taking, we should strive not o'er that I ween ! '
Then Lippaut the prince overtook them half-way on the hillside green,
And he saw Obilot and Claudittd, as up towards the Burg they sped,
And he bade them stand still, and await him, and his daughter towards him
fled.

* Father, I never needed thy help as I do to-day,

560 Now give me I pray thy counsel, for the knight he hath said me yea.'
' Whate'er be thy will, little daughter, an I may, I will give it thee.
For happy the day whose dawning brought thee, a fair gift to me.
Then Good Fortune smiled sweetly on me.' * I will tell thee, my father dear.
But the thing that so sore doth vex me thou must it in secret hear,

565 So hearken, and do as I pray thee ! ' Then he bade them to lift the maid
On his charger, 'But what of my playmate?' Many knights round their

leader stayed,
And they strove which of them should take her, for each one well pleased

would be,
Then one as his prize he claimed her, for Clauditt^ was fair to see.

OBILOT 213

Then riding, he spake, her fiither, ^ Now OlMlot tell to me

How dost thou need my coimsel ? What is it that vexeth thee ?' 570

' I have promised my knight a token, and my wits were I ween astray,

If nothing I find to give him then worthless my life to-day ;

Since he vowed unto me his service then in sooth must I blush for shame.

If I give him naught — Never hero truer love from a maid might claim 1 '

Then he quoth, ' Trust to me, little daughter, and thy token I will prepare, 575

If service from him thou winnest thou shalt give him his payment fair,

If thy mother she too be willing — God grant he may bring us aid.

That gallant knight and worthy ; what trust I on him have laid !

Tho' never a word to the hero had I spoken before to-day.

Yet last night in a dream I saw him, as asleep on my couch I lay.' 5^

Then Lippaut he sought the Duchess, and with him he led the maid,

And he quoth, * Now lady, help us, for we twun sorely need thine aid ;

And my heart would shout for gladness that God gave me this maiden fair.

And parted me from the sorrow that I all guiltless bare.'

Then out spake the Duchess, * Tell me, what wilt thou of my grace ? ' 585

' Lady, since thou wilt hearken, this maid craves a better dress,

And she deems she of right may ask it, since a knight will her token bear.

And he asketh her love, and he offers to do for her service fair.'

Then out spake the maiden's mother, 'Ah, good and gallant knight !

Of the stranger I ween thou speakest, as May-tide his glance of light.' 590

Then samite of Ethnisd the wise mistress she bade them bear

And rich stuffs as yet unsevered, and silk of Tabronit fair

From far Tribalibof s kingdom—Red the gold on Kaucasus' strand,

And fair is I ween the raiment which the heathen, with cunning hand,

Wrought from silk, with the gold inwoven— And Lippaut, the prince, he bade 595

That therefrom for his little daughter fitting garments should straight be

made.
Nor the best would he grudge to the maiden, and they shaped her a garment

fair,
Of silk that with gold was heavy ; but one white arm they left yet bare.
And a sleeve that the arm had covered from the vesture they cut away,
This should Gawain win for his token and badge in the coming fray. 600

214 PARZIVAL I

So this was the gift thai she gave him» a rich silk of Orient bright,

That was brought from the land of the paynim, and had covered her arm so

white.
But they sewed it not to the garment, nor wrought it at all with thread,
And Clauditt^ to Gawain bare it, when home from the Burg she sped.

605 And free from all care was the hero ; and three were his shields so bright,
And on one straightway he bound it, and glad was the gallant knight ; ^

And fairest thanks he gave her, and oft would he praise the road
On which the maid had trodden when she sought him in his abode,
And so gently bade him welcome, and with sweet words and maiden wile

610 Had made him rich in gladness, and made joy on his path to smile.

Now the daylight had waned, and the night fell, — many valiant knights and

good,
A mighty force, lay on each side, — the besiegers were e'en a flood.
Were they less, for the folk of the city their army enow should be.
And now by the light of the moonbeams they would fain to their outworks see ; ^
615 Nor terror nor cowardice moved them, they were ready ere break of day,
Twelve breast-works wide, and a deep moat before every earth-work lay.
Thus they shielded them we}l from onslaught, and to every earth-work wide
Were barbicans three, that the army might forth to the conflict ride.

And at four of the gates the Marshal, Kardefablet of Jamore,
620 With his army bravely battled, as men well at the dawning saw.

And the rich Duke fought full knightly ; he was brother to Lippaut's wife.
And stronger in heart than others who yet bear them well in strife.
And for men of war are reckoned — In conflict he grief would bear —
' With nightfall his host drew nearer, from far land would he hither fare,
625 For but seldom from sdVess of battle or conflict he turned aside,
And four of their gates he guarded right well in his warlike pride.

The force from beyond the river passed o'er it ere morning light.
And entered the walls of Beaurosch, as Lippaut should deem it right
But they of Jamore had ridden o'er the bridge before the gate,
630 And every door was guarded, and warlike their foes they wait.
Ere ever the day had dawnM — Scherules one door would ward,
Which he and the brave Knight Gawain would let not from out their guard.

OBILOT 215

And there had ye heard lamentation from the lips of many a knight,

And the best they were who mourned thus, they had failed here to see the

fight,
For the vesper-play was ended ere yet they a joust might share. ^35

Yet needless their lamentation, for countless they proffered there
To all who had lust for battle, and to joust in the field would ride.
In the streets saw ye many a hoof-track, and there drew in on every side
Full many a tossing banner by the light of the moonbeam's ray.
And many a costly helmet would they wear in the joust that day, 640

And spears with bright colours blazoned — A Regensburg silk, I ween,
Had been held of little value 'fore Beaurosch on the meadow green.
For many a coat emblazoned had ye looked upon that day,
Whose goal had methinks been higher in the cost that its lord would pay.

And the night, as of old her custom, had yielded her place to day, 645

Nor by song of the lark might they know it, for they hearkened far other lay.
Whose voice was the voice of warfare with the crash of the splintered spear,
As a doud that is cleft and riven when the thunderbolt falleth near.
And the King of Lys' young army sought the host of Lirivoin,
And there, with his warriors, battled the monarch of Avendroin ; 650

And many a joust rang loudly, e'en as when one is wont to throw
Chestnuts within the furnace that burst in the fiery glow^
Ah, me 1 how they strove together that mom on the grassy plain.
How the knights spurred their steeds to jouäting, and the Burgers they
fought amain.

Now Gawain, and his host the Burg-grave, since it health to their souls might 655

bring,
And yield them a meed of blessmg, bade a priest a Mass to sing ;
And he sang unto God and the heroes — And the prize of their fame waxed

fair.
For this.was their pious'bidding — Then they would to their post repair,
But their rampart ere this was guarded by many a gallant knight.
The followers they of Scherules, and well would those heroes fight. 660

And what should I tell ye fiirther ? Poidikonjonz was proud 1 ween,
And he came with such host, if in Schwarzwald each bough had a spear-
shaft been

2i6 PARZIVAL

I had looked on nojg^eater forest than here on this field ye saw.
And six banners they bare, and early to battle would nearer draw,
^5 With ringing blasts of trumpet e'en as thunder that wakeneth fear,

And drums strove amain with the trumpets, and smote on the listening ear.
If a grass blade were left untrampled by the conflict I knew it not —
E'en now shall the Erfurt vineyards show such tokens of strife, I wot !

Then hither he came, Duke Astor, and he lought with the men of Jamore,
670 And for sharp joust the spears they whetted, and many a knight they bore
From his saddle down on the meadow, and for combat they aye were fain ;
And clear rang the stranger war-cries — And masterless o'er the plain
Sped many a gallant charger, and afoot went the fallen knight.
For I ween he had learnt the lesson how one oft is o'erthrown in fight.

675 Then he saw, the gallant Gawain, how out on the plain afar
The host of both friend and foeman were mingled in deadly war ;
And he spurred him swift towards them ; nor 'twas light in his steps to tread,
Tho' little they spared their chargers, those knights who behind him sped,
Scherules and his vassals— Gawain gave them pain, I trow,

680 Ah, me ! for the spears he shivered and the knights that he laid alow.

Had God given him not such valour, this knight of the Table Round,
Then in sooth had one made petition for the fame that he there had found.
'Twas all as one, both armies, 'gainst the twain did he set his hand.
That of Gros as of Lys — Many chargers did he win from each knightly band,
^5 And straightway the hero brought them where his host's banner waved on high.
And he asked who was there who should need them? And many swift reply;
Then he gave them e'en as they answered, and rich were they all, I trow.
Thro' this brother-in-arms whose friendship they here for a space should
know.

Then there came a knight fast spurring, nor spears did he think to spare
690 The Lord of Beauvais and Gawain they rode 'gainst each other there.
And the young knight, Lisavander, midst the flowers of the field he lay.
From his saddle behind his charger did Gawain thrust the prince that day.
For the sake of his squire shall this grieve me, who yestreen so courteous

spake.
And told to Gawain the tidings, and whence all this woe did wake.

OBILOT 217

He dismounted, and bent o'er his master, and Gawain he knew his face, 695
And he gave him the steed he had won there, and the squire thanked his
hand of grace.

Now see ye how Kardefablet himself on the ground doth stand

From a joust that was ridden against him, and aimed by young Meljanz*

hand;
From the ground his warriors lift him, and loud rings the battle-cry
' Jamore ! ' and the clashing sword-blades to the challenge make swift reply. 700
And closer the fight draws round him, onslaught on onslaught pressed,
And the blows ring loud and deafening that fall on each knightly crest.
Then Gawain called his men around him, and swift to his aid he sped.
And he covered the knight with the banner of his host that flew high over-
head,
And many brave knights had been felled there — ^Tho' witness I never knew, 705
Yet in sooth ye may well believe me for the venture it telleth true !

Then the Count of Montane rode 'gainst Gawain, and a goodly joust they

ran,
And behind his horse, on the meadow» lay the brave Knight Lahduman,
And the hero, proud and gallant, his pledge unto Gawain gave.
And nearest of all to the ramparts fought Duke Astor with heroes brave, 710
And many a joust was ridden, and many a spear was crossed ;
' Nantes \ Nantes ! ' came the war-cry pealing, the cry of King Arthur's

host,
Firm they stood, and no whit they yielded, the captive Breton knights.
And hirelings from Erec's kingdom and men spake of their deeds of might —
The Duke of Lanveronz led them — So well did they fight that day 715

That Poidikonjonz well might free them, since his captives they were alway ;
At the mountain Cluse from King Arthur, in the days that were long gone by,
As his prisoners did he win them, when they stortned him right valiantly.
And here, as was aye their custom, where'er they might chance to fight.
They shouted 'Nantes' as their war-cry, 'twas the way of th^se men of 790

might ;
And many had waxed grey-bearded, and on every Breton breast
Or high on their helmet gleaming stood a Gampilon for their crest
For as Ilinofs arms they bare it, who was Arthur's gallant son —
And Gawain he sighed as he saw it (small fame he 'gainst these had won).

2i8 PARZIVAL

795 And his heart awoke to sorrow for the blazon right well he knew,
And it filled him again with anguish for the death of his kinsman true.
And his eyes ran o'er with tear-drops, and he passed them upon the field,
Nor with them would he fight — ^Thus to friendship a hero fiiU oft shall yield !

Then he rode on to Meljanz' army, whom the Burgers with might with-
stood,
730 And their rightful meed of honour they won from the warriors good ;

Tho' perforce 'gainst o'ermastering numbers they had failed to hold the field,
And backward within their trenches awhile to the foe must yield.

And he who the Burgers challenged his harness glowed red as flame,
' The Nameless Knight ' they called him for none knew from whence he
came; .

735 And I tell it to ye as I heard it, to Meljanz he rode, this knight,
But three days back, and the Burgers must mourn it in coming fight
That he swore his aid to their foeman — Twelve squires unto him he gave.
To serve him as meet in the jousting, and to follow to onslaught brave.
And the spears their hand might proffer those spears he right swiftly brake,

740 And clear rang his joust o'er the tumult, when he did as his captives take
King Schimiel and his brother ; nor he would from his pledge release
The knight whom he here had vanquished, the Duke of Marangliess.
And bravely they fought mid the foremost, and he vanquished them as they

stood,
Yet their folk still held them valiant tho' reft of their leaders good.

745 And there fought the young King Meljanz, and all were they friend or foe,*

They owned greater deeds of valour a young knight might seldom show ;

By his hand were the strong shields cloven — Ah ! the spears that he brake
in twain

As the forces together mingling dashed swift o'er the battle-plain.

And his young heart for conflict lusted, and none gave him of strife his fib,
750 And it vexed him sore, till Gawain would joust with him at his will.

Then Gawain took a spear of Angram, that he won him at Plimizöl,
And twelve were those spears — The war-cry of Meljanr was * Barbigöl ! *
Of his kingdom of Lys 'twas chief city — Gawain aimed his joust so true.
And Oraste Gentesein taught sorrow to the king since it pierced him thro*

OBILOT 219

That strong shaft of reed ; his shield piercing, it brake in his aim of might — 755
And a fair joust again was ridden, and Gawain smote the King in flight ;
And the hinder bow of the saddle it brake, and those heroes twain
They stood on their feet, and valiant, they battled with swords amain,
^were more than enough such labour for two churls on the threshing-floor,
And each one bare the sheaf of the other, and each smote the other sore. ^60

And a spear must Meljanz carry that had smitten him thro' the arm,
And thro' conflict fierce the hero in blood and sweat waxed warm.
Then Gawain by force he drave him within a portal wide,
And he bade him his pledge to swear him, nor the young king his will

defied ;
Were he not so sorely wounded then so swiftly Jie ne'er were known, 765

To yield himself to a foeman, but his prowess had longer shown.

Then Lippaut the prince, the land's host, his valour might not restrain
With the monarch of Gros he battled ; and alike must they suffer pain.
Both man and steed from the bow-shots, for their skill they were fain to

show.
They of Semblidag, and Kahetines, for they fled as they bent the bow. 770

And the Burgers must well bethink them the foe from their lines to hold,
But foot-soldiers had they, and sheltered by their ramparts they battled bold.
And he who of life was forfeit for the wrath of a maid must pay.
For her folly and scorn on her people brought sorrow enow that day.
But what part therein had Lippaut ? I think me his lord of old, 775

King Schaut, ne'er had thus beset him ! Now faint waxed those heroes bold,

But Meljakanz still fought bravely — Do ye think it was whole, his shield?
Not a hand's-bteadth wide was the fragment — Then he bare him across the

field
Duke Kardefablet, and I think me the Tourney it came to stand
On the meadow fair and flowery, for fast locked was either band. ^

Then Gawain he rode swiftly to them, and he pressed Meljakanz so sore.
E'en Launcelot, gallant hero» ne'er wrought him such grief afore
When the sword bridge he crossed to battle— Her captivity pleased him ill,
The Queen Guinevere, and he thought him by the sword-blade to free her

still.

220 PARZIVAL

7*5 King Lot's son he rode full gallop— Meljakanz, what could he do
But spur his steed towards him ? And many that joust must view.
Who lay there hehind his charger? He whom the gallant knight
Of Norroway had smitten to earth with his spear of might
And many a knight and lady they looked on this joust so fair,

790 And they spake in praise of Gawain, and his £eune would aloud declare.
And the maidens right well might see it as they looked from the hall on high.
Underfoot was Meljakanz trampled ; many steeds did o'er him fly,
And tare with their hoofs his surcoat, who fodder might taste no more,
And they covered the prostrate hero with rain of sweat and gore.

79S 'Twas a day of doom for the chai^ers, but the vultures at will might feast ;
And Duke Astor he came to the rescue, and from them of Jamore released
Meljakanz, or else was he captive, and he raised him from off the ground —
And the Tourney was o'er, and the combat methinks had its ending found.

Now who had as knight best ridden, or best for a maiden fought ?
800 Nay, I know not, an I would name them small leisure such task had brought
For Maid Obilot's sake with the townsfolk a knight valiant deeds had

dared ;
Without, a Red Knight fought bravely, and the fame 'twixt those two was
shared.

When the guest of the outer army had learnt he no thanks might win
From the king he had served, since Meljanz was captive the town within,

805 He rode where his squires were waiting, and thus to his prisoners spake,
< Sir Knights, ye your word have pledged me ; ill-chance doth me here o'er-

take.
For King Meljanz of Lys is captive— Now if ye such grace can find
With his captors, that for your freedom A» fetters they will unbind,
Such service I Id gladly do him ! ' To the King of Avendroin

810 He spake, and to Duke Marangliess, and King Schimiel of Lirivoin.
And this oath must they swear unto him, ere they rode the walls within,
To loose Meljanz, or if they failed here, to help him the Grail to win.
But never a word could they tell him of where It was hid, the Grail,
Save 'twas guarded by King Anfortas, but further, their lore must fail

*i5 When thus they spake, quoth the Red Knight, * Then if it shall still betide
That my wish find not here fulfilment, ye to Pdrapär shall ride,

OBI LOT 221

And unto the fair queen yielding say, *' He who in days of yore

Faced Kingron for her and Klamid^ for the Grail now sorroweth sore,

As he yeameth for her, his lady, and after the twain in thought

And deed is he ever striving." To her be this message brought ^^

And ye heroes bear it truly, and as on your way ye ride

God have ye in His «safe keeping, for the world and its ways are wide.'

Then they prayed his leave, and they rode hence— And the knight to his

squires he spake,
' Here is booty none may gainsay us, of these steeds ye at will may take ;
But leave me one for my riding, since sore wounded mine own shall be.' 835
Spake the Squires, * Sir Knight, we must thapk thee for the grace thou hast

shown us free.
For our lifetime hast thou enriched us.' Then he chose in his charger's

stead,
With the close-cropped ears, Ingliart, the same that from Gawain fled.
When Meljanz he made his captive, and the twain they must fall in field.
And the Red Knight's hand had caught it, when hewn was many a shield. 830

Then Farewell the hero bade them — Full fifteen steeds they tell.
To the squires he left, unwounded, in sooth might they thank him well.
And they prayed him to linger with them, and abide with them yet a space.
But far hence lay the goal he was seeking, and the road he was fain to trace.
So he turned him about, the hero, to where ease should be bought full dear 835
For naught but strife was he seeking — In the days that ye read of here
No knight e'en as he had battled — Then the outer host would ride
To where they might find a lodging, and in peace for a space abide.

And within, Lippaut spake, and asked them how matters had gone that day ?
That Meljanz was taken captive, that tale did he know alway. g^^

And ail was as he would have it, and comfort the hour would bear —
And Gawain loosed the sleeve full gently from his shield, lest perchance it

tear.
For he deemed it o'er good for tearing, and Clauditt^ she held it fast.
And 'twas slashed in the sides and the centre with the spears that had thro'

it passed ;
And he bade her to Obilot bear it, and glad was the little maid, 845

On her bare white arm soft-rounded the tattered sleeve she laid,

222 PARZIVAL

And spake, * Who hath done this for me ?' whene'er she her sister saw,
And wrathful her elder sister her maiden mischief bore.

Then, as weariness it bade them, the knights they craved for rest —
850 Then Scherules took Count Lahduman, and Gawain his gallant guest
And many a knight whom he found there, whom Gawain with valiant hand
Had overthrown on the jfield of battle tho' strife they might well withstand.
And the Burg-grave rich he bade them to sit them in order fair,
And he and his wearied vassals would stand 'fore their monarch there
855 Till Meljanz his fill had eaten— And they treated him courteously,
But Gawain, o'er-much he deemed it, and he spake out, frank and free,

' Methinks an the king allow thee. Sir Host, thou shouldst take a seat.'
Thus spake Gawain in his wisdom, as his courtesy found it meet.
But the host gave his prayer denial, * The king's man is that gallant knight
860 My master, this were his office if the king had but deemed it right
To take, as of old, his service — My lord thro' his courtesy
Will not see the face of his monarch while exiled from grace is he.
An it pleaseth God of friendship to sow here the seed once more.
Then joyful we 11 do his bidding with one will, as in days of yore.'

865 Then spake the youthful Meljanz, * Yea, courteous knights and true
Were ye, when I dwelt among ye, nor your rede did I ever rue.
An I now had thy counsel followed, this even had seen me glad ;
Now give me thine aid Count Scherules, for the trust that I ever had
In thy faith, with this knight my captor, and with him my second sire

870 Duke Lippaut— for well 1 think me they will do as thou shalt require —
Yea, pray them to show me favour, for friends had we been to-day
Had not Obie such jest played on me as no maiden I ween should play ! ' i

Then out spake the gallant Gawain, 'Afresh shall be knit a band
That naught but death can sever ' — Then they came whom the Red Knight's
hand

875 Without had taken captive, on the height would they seek their king,
And they told him all that befell them ; and Gawain must list the thing,
And they told of the arms of the hero, how their strength before his must fail,
And how he their pledge had taken, and had bidden them seek the Grail ;
And he thought how the knight of this venture was none other than Parrival,

880 And his thanks uprose to high Heaven that no evil did there befall,

OBILOT 223

But that God apart had held theni) and they met not in strife that day.
And courteous I ween were those heroes that they tore not the yeil away,
But both of them there were nameless, and none knew from whence they

came,
Yet I wot well the world around them rang fair with their warlike fame.

To Meljanz he spake, Scherules, ' Now, Sire, wilt thou list to me ? 885

Look thou agsdn on my master, and such rede as is given to thee

By friends on both sides shalt thou hearken, and thine anger shalt thou

recall ;'
And all deemed it good, the counsel, so they rode to the royal hall,
The inner force of the city, as the Marshal was £ain to pray.
Then Gawain took the Count Lahduman, and the captives he made that day, 890
And he gathered them all around him, and the pledge that to him they gave
When he erst on the field overthrew them, must they yield to the Burg-grave

brave.
And gladly they did his bidding — To the palace the heroes fare,
And rich garments as fit for a monarch did the wife of the Burg-grave bear ;
And a veil did she give unto Meljanz that should serve him for a sling 895

For the arm that Gawain had wounded, when his spear smote the youthful

king.

And Gawain by the mouth of Scherules, Obilot his lady prayed ;

Fain would the hero see her, his life in her hand he laid,

And would crave from her lips dismissal — and further the hero spake,

' I leave the king here, her captive, and I pray her such thought to take 900

That she may in such wise entreat him, that her honour shall wax apace ! '

And Meljanz spake, ' Well I know this, Obilot is of maiden grace

And maiden worth the glory ; and joyful am I at heart

If her captive I be, for in gladness methinks shall I have my part/

Then out quoth- the gallant Gawain, 'Her prisoner art thou alone, 905

'Tis she who hath captive made thee, and my glory is here her own^'

Before them rode Scherules — As was fitting for royal court.
Nor man was there nor maiden but had robed them in such sort
That one, in poor guise and scanty, might scarce have been seen that day —
They who sware their pledge to the Red Knight with Meljanz must take 910
their way.

'334 PARZIVAL

And there in the hall of the castle they sat in their order four,

Lippauty his wife, and his daughters, as the guests passed within the door.

Up sprang the host and hastened his lord and king to greet,
And close pressed the crowd around them as friend with foe did meet ;
91S By Gawain's side stood Meljanz. * Now, an it were here thy will,
Thy friend of old, the Duchess, with kiss would she greet thee still'
And Meljanz to his host made answer, ' Two ladies I think to see
From whom I '11 take kiss and greeting— but the /Aifv/ naught shall win from
me'

And the parents wept ; but the maiden, Obilot, was glad and gay,
9ao And they greeted their king with kisses ; and two beardless kings that day
They kissed, with the Duke of Marangliess, and the gallant Knight Gawain.
And they brought him his little lady, and the fair child he clasped again.
And e'en as a doll he held her so' close to his manly breast.
As joy and delight constrained him, and to Meljanz his speech addrest :
935 'Thine hand hath surety pledged me, ofthat shall thou now be free.
In my right arm I hold my lady, her captive thou now shalt be.'

Then Meljanz he stept him nearer, and she held fast to Gawain's hand.
And she took the pledge of her monarch mid the knights who did round

them stand.
' Sir King, 'twas ill-done I think me, if a merchant he be my knight
930 As my sister hath said, to yield thee as his captive on field of might ! '
Thus spake Obilot, the maiden ; then to Meljanz she gave command.
He should yield his pledge to her sister, and swear it hand clasped in hand ;
' Thou shalt have her for Love, for thy knighthood, as her Love and her

Lord art thou
Henceforward, of true heart gladly, and ye twain to my will shall bow ! '

935 God spake by the lips of the maiden, her will it was done straightway,
. And Frau Minne with power and wisdom again o'er their hearts held sway.
And knit afresh the meshes, and fettered the twain anew ;
From the folds of her flowing mantle her small hand Obie drew.
And she touched the arm of her lover, and weeping, her lips so red

940 Kissed the wound he had won in jousting, since it was for her sake he bled«

OBILOT 22S

And his ann was bathed in the tear-drops that flowed from her eyes so

bright —
How waxed she thus bold 'fore the people? Twas Love bade her claim

her right ;
And fulfilled was the wish of Lippaut, and naught of his bliss should fail,
Since God had willed that his daughter henceforth as his queen he hail 1

How the wedding feast was holden, ask them who took their share 94

Of wedding gifts, or wandering, to Beaurosch had thought to fiare.

If they fought, or were £un to rest them, of that I no word may tell,

But they say in the hall of the palace Sir Gawain would bid farewell

To her for whose leave he caikie there, and sore wept the little maid

And spake, ' Now take me with thee,' but Gawain her wish gainsaid, 95«

And scarce might her mother tear her from the knight — leave he prayed

them there»
And Lippaut he proffered service for the good-will he towards him bare;
And his gallant host. Sehendes, with his folk he would not delay
To ride awhile with the hero ; and he wended a woodland way,
And they gave him guides for his journey, and food lest he ill should fare, 951
And he bade them frirewell, and sorrow Gawain for the parting bare.

VOL. I-

BOOK VIII

ANTIKONIE

ARGUMENT

Book viii. teils how Qawain came to Schamtoion, and how King
Vergulacht oommitted him to the care of hii tifter Antikonie. How
Qawain wooed the maiden, and of the wrath of her people. Of the
adventure of the chess-board, and how Kingrimimd came to the help
of Gawain« How Antikonie reproached King Vergulacht, and how the
notdes coonseUed their monarch. Of the oath Gawain sware to the King,
and how he rode Ibrth to seek the OrrniL

BOOK VIII
ANTIKONIE

HOSOE'ER at Beaurosch had battled, methinks that Gawain
had won
The highest fame in both armies, save but for one knight

alone;
And none knew his red harness glowing, and none knew
from whence he came,
But high as a banner waveth, so high did it rise, his fame.
Yet of honour alike and good fortune had Gawain in full his share — 5

Now hence must he ride, for the moment of strife which he sought drew

near.
And far and wide stretched the woodland thro' which he must wend his

way —
No conflict he shunned, tho' all guiltless of the sin men on him would lay.
But, alas 1 his chaiger failed him, Ingliart, with the dose-cropped ear,
In the land of the Moors at Tabronit no better the steeds they rear. >o

And diverse the wood around him, here a bush and there a field.
And so narrow at whiles, that pathway, it scarcely a space might yield
For tent, or for knight's pavilion. Then feir dwellings met his eye,
'Twas Askalon, and he prayed them if Schamfanzon at hand did lie ?
But many a marsh and moorland and many a steep hillside <5

Must he traverse, ere fair before him in the setting sun he spied
A fortress stand so stately, it gleamed in the sunlight's rays,
And he turned his steed towards it who rode here on unknown ways.

Now list ye awhile the venture, and mourn ye awhile with me

The sorrow that fell on Gawain — And if old ye shall chance to be 20

Or young, yet of this your friendship I pray you his grief to weep ;

Alas ! were it best to tell ye, or silence a space to keep ?

230 , PARZIVAL

Nay, better to tell the story, how he whom Good Luck did call
Her friend, was by her forsaken, and how grief to his lot must fall.

^5 So proudly uprose the fortress that never did Carthage seem
So fair to the eyes of iEneas, when Didb, as failed her dream
Of love, turned to death and, seeking, found rest in his cold embrace.
Would ye know what countless turrets those stately halls did grace ?
Scarce more had Akraton boasted, that city whose walls so wide,

3P An man may believe the heathen, with Babylon only vied ;
So high rose the circling ramparts, and where to the sea they fell
No storm might they fear, but defiance could they bid to their foes right
well.

'Fore the city a plain outstretching lay fair for a mile or more.
As Sir Gawain rode across it, five hundred knights he saw,

35 Yet one, o'er all the others, gallant and fair to sight ;
Gaily they rode towards him all clad in raiment bright,
For so the venture telleth — With their falcons soaring high
Would they chase the crane, or other fair game that should winged fly.
A tall steed from Spain's far kingdom. King Vergulacht bestrode,

40 And his glance was as day in the night-time — Aforetime his race abode
Where Mazadan reigned as monarch, by Fay Morgan'^ mystic mount,
And amid the roll of his fathers he many a fay might count —
And even as in the spring-tide the May blossom bloometh fair
So rode the king in his beauty, and Gawain he bethought him there,

45 As he saw him ride so stately, 'twas another Parzival,

Or Gamuret, as he came to Kanvoleis, as this venture erewhile did tell.

Now into a pond so marshy a heron had taken flight

As it fled from before the falcon, and the king, as beseemed a knight,

Sought not for the ford but followed as he saw his falcon's need,

50 And wet he won in the aiding, and lost was his gallant steed,
And lost too his royal raiment^ tho' safe was I ween the bird.
The falconers took his garments, for this, so the tale I 've heard.
Was their right, and they needs must have them, and no man might say

them nay.
Another horse they brought him, for lost was his own for aye,

55 And fresh garments they put upon him, since such was the chance of fate
That his falconers won the vesture that had decked their king of late.

ANTIKONIE 231

Then Sir Gawain, he rode towards them, and knightly and worshipful

The greeting they gave unto him, not such as in Karidöl

Once fell to the lot of Erec, when after his well-fought fight

He had fain drawn near to King Arthur, and with him his lady bright, ^

Fair Enid, who graced his coming — But the dwarf Maliklisier

With a scourge full hardly smote him, 'neath the eyes of Queen Guinevere. .

At Tulmein he took his vengeance, where, within the ring so wide

To win the hawk, the heroes in deeds of valour vied.

'Twas Ider, the son of Noit, a hero true and bold ^5

Whom he else had slain, whom Erec did there in surety hold.

But leave we all other venture, and hearken awhile to me,

For in sooth never fairer welcome shall it fall to your lot to see.

Yet, alas ! for ill it wrought him, Gawain, King Lot's brave son —

An ye will I will cease my story ere the tale to its end be run, 70

And for pity's sake keep silence — Yet perchance it were best to tell

The ill that thro' others' treason on a gallant spirit fell.

And if I yet further pray ye this story strange to heed

Then in sooth, e'en as I, right truly will ye mourn for its hero's need.

Quoth the king, ' Sir Knight, thus I think me, thou shalt to the castle ride, 75
Thine host will I be right gladly, tho' scarce may I be thy guide ;
Yet if this on my part shall vex thee the chase will I gladly leave ! '
Quoth Gawain, * As it best may please thee, that do, nor for my sake grieve,
Whate'er thou shalt do shall be well done — No grudge do I bear thee, Sire,
But of right good-will I gladly will do as thou shalt require.' 80

Quoth the king of Askalon further, ' Schamfanzon thou well mayst see

Sir Knight, there my sister dwelleth, who as yet but a maid shall be ;

And she hath in fullest measure such beauty as poets sing —

An thou as a grace shalt hold it, my knights unto her shall bring

Such word she shall well entreat thee in my stead, till I come again. 85

And whenever I come, I think me, 'twill be sooner than thou art fain

To look on my face, for gladly wilt thou spare me when thou shalt see

My sweet sister, nor e'er bemoan thee, tho' my coming o'er late shall be ! '

* Nay, gladly again I'll see thee, and gladly thy sister greet,

Tho* as host never queen has done me such service as host finds meet.' 90

232 PARZIVAL

Thus spake the gallant Gawain — ^Then a knight bare the king's behest *
To his sister, that she, as fitting, should so care for the stranger guest
That however long his absence the hours should as minutes fly—
(An ye will, I will cease my story that now runneth but mournfully 1)

95 Nay, further I '11 tell the venture, — Steed and pathway the hero bore

Where as one were both Buig and palace, and he held him before the door.

And he who shall e'er have builded a house, he shall better know

To tell of this mighty castle, and the strength of its walls to show.

Yea, indeed 'twas a Bui^g, none better might this earth on its bosom bear

^ And around it, far outstretching, the ramparts towered high in air.

Leave we the praise of the castle, and speak of the castle's queen,
A maiden fair, for of women I shall better speak I ween.
And as fitting I'll sing her praises — ^Was she foir to the eye ? 'Twas well ;
• Was she true of heart ? Then gladly will men of her praises tell.

05 And so both in mind and manner might she vie with that lady true,
The Margravine, who from Heitstein afar o'er her marches threw
A light, — Well for him who dwelleth as friend in her presence £iir,
Such pastime as there his portion he findeth not other-where !
For I praise but a woman's virtue, as I see, and shall surely know,

10 True and pure must she be, the maiden, on whom I shall praise bestow.
And he whom this venture singeth is a gallant man and true,
For no dealing have I with falsehood, or with one who his deeds shall mei
As repentance, slowly piercing, but tumeth his bliss to bale.
And his soul knoweth wrath and sorrow, or ever his life-days fail.

15 To the castle court rode Gawain, and the goodly company
To whom the king had sent him, who shamed for his sake should be.
Then the knight to his lady led him, as she sat in her beauty's glow.
Queen Antikonie — Could the merchants a woman's fame bestow,
Of such goods had she made rich purchase ; 'gainst falsehood she set her face,

30 And hers was the crown of honour, and a maiden's maiden grace.
Ah ! woe's me for him of Veldeck, that death thus cut short his days.
None is there of all men living who so well could have sung her praise.

Then Gawain, he looked on the maiden, and the messenger spake the word
E'en as the king had bade him, and the queen his message heard.

ANTIKONIE 333

Then gently she spake to the hero, * Come thou near unto me, Sir Knight, 135

Thyself shalt be my master in courtesy, as is right ;

And gladly 1 11 do thy bidding— If well it shall please thee here,

'Twill be even as thou shalt order— Yea, since my brother dear

Hath bid me well entreat thee, 1 11 kiss thee, if so I may.

I 'U do, or leave it undone, e'en as thou the word shalt say !' 130

Courteous she stood before him, quoth Gawain, * Thy lips so red

In sooth were made for kissing, be kiss and greeting sped ! '

So full and warm and rosy were the lips that Gawain pressed,

No stranger sure had kissed her as kissed this stranger guest

Unchecked he sat him by her, and sweet words passed between, 135

Soft spake they to each other ; and oft renewed, I ween,

His prayers and her denials, yea, sorely grieved was he,

And fain to win her favour— Then she spake as I tell to ye :

* Bethink thee, Sir Knight, thou art wise else, with this I enough have done,
For I ween at my brother's bidding mine uncle Gamuret won 140

Less welcome from Queen Anflis^ than the welcome /gave to thee.
An our tending were weighed together methinks hers would lighter be.
Nor know I, Sir Knight, whence thou comest, nor e'en what shall be thy

name,
That, after such short approving, thou shouldst to my love lay claim ! '

Then out spake the gallant Gawain, 'Then know here assuredly M5

O ! queen, of my father's sister the brother's son am I ;

Wilt thou give me sweet love's rewarding, for my birth shalt thou not delay,

Hand in hand, and to equal measure, it paceth with thine alway ! '

The maiden who filled the wine-cup she had passed from out the hall,

And the women who sat beside them must now to their mind recall '5o

The task that elsewhere did wait them ; nor longer the knight stood there

Who erst to the queen had brought him— As Gawain was now aware

That no man was here beside them, he thought how a mighty bird

Is oft trapped by a little falcon— nor further he spake a word.

But he passed his arm around her beneath her mantle's fold, '55

And love laid such stress upon them, the maid and the hero bold,

That belike a thing had chanced there, an no eye had been there to see,

Of one mind were the twain— yet heart-sorrow drew near to them speedily.

234 PARZIVAL

For straight stepped within the doorway an old and grey-haired knight,
i6o And loudly he called on Gawain, and shouted a shout of might,
For well did he know the hero, and fiercely his cry did ring,
' Alas t alas 1 woe upon us, since the hand that hath slain our king
Is tsLin now to force his daughter ! ' At the sound of his battle-cry
The folk that within the castle abode to the hall did hie,
»öS So it fell out — Then quoth Sir Gawain to the queen, * Now, Lady mine.

Say thou how we best may ward us 'gainst this wrathful folk of thine, ^

For sure they will come against us— An I had but my sword at hand ! *
Then out spake the gentle maiden, ' Their might shall we best withstand
An we to yon tower betake us that riseth my bower beside,
^70 Perchance they will then bethink them, and the storm shall we override.'

Here a knight, and there a merchant, already the maid must hear,
With the cry of the angry townsfolk, as the twain to the tower drew near :
And sore was her friend beset there, tho' she prayed them from strife to cease,
So loud rose the angry tumult none hearkened her words of peace.

175 'Gainst the portal the foe pressed onward, Gawain stood within the door,
And held off the angry rabble ; an iron bolt he tore

From its fastenings wherewith to arm him, and before his strong right hand
Full oft fled his evil neighbours, they durst not his blows withstand.
While the queen, with flying footsteps, hither and thither sought

180 To find, perchance, some weapon 'gainst the foe that so fiercely fought.
At length did she chance on some chess-men, and a chess-board, wide and

fair,
That hung by a ring of iron ; to Gawain she brought it there.
As a shield four-square it served him ; yea, many a game was played
On that board ere 'twas hewn in battle — Now hear of the royal maid ; jg*

185 Were it king, or queen, or castle, she hurled them against the foe.
Heavy and large the chess-men, and in sooth I would have ye know
They who by her shaft were stricken must ever a fall abide.
Right bravely the queen so gracious now fought by her hero's side.
And she bare herself so knightly, that never the Burger maids

190 Of Tollenstein at Shrove-tide such dauntless skill displayed.

And yet they but fight for folly, and weary themselves for naught —
An a woman bear trace of battle, on her womanhood shame is brought,

\

ANTIKONIE 235

(For I know what befits a woman,) unless love shall have bid her fight

To prove her faith— Now faithful and true was that lady bright,

As Schamfimzon might bear witness — ^Yet, tho' high of heart was she, '95

Many tears that conflict cost her ; for in sooth shall it ever be

That Love is brave as steadfast, yet tender and true of heart —

Would ye know how in such fierce conflict Sir Gawain would bear his part ?

When the strife but leisure gave him to gaze on the maid aright,

Her lips so red and glowing, her eyes so soft and bright — aoo

More slender was she and shapely than ever a lowland hare

That ye truss on the spit, so graceful her limbs, and her form so fair ;

Full well might her charms awaken desire in the heart of man.

And smaller, I ween, the maiden, where her golden girdle ran

Around her waist, than ants are, and their slender shape ye know — ^5

The sight wrought in Gawain courage his foen\en to overthrow.

For she shared his need ; his chastising none other than death should be,

And help was there none — Then his anger flamed high and wroth was he

As he looked on that gentle maiden« and no fear was his but hate.

And sorely his foemen rued it who met at his hand their fate. ^^o

Came King Vergulacht, and he saw well how his folk 'gainst Gawain did fight;

Nor do I in this deceive ye, nor can I account him right

That not as a host he bare him, when he saw his gallant guest

TKus stand, as one man against many — But straight thro' the throng he

pressed,
In such wise, I must mourn for Gandein, the monarch of Anjou fair, ^^5

That his daughter, so true a lady, so faithless a son must bear.
From the strife his folk he called not, short space must they stay their hand
While the king would don his armour, he lusted to lead the band.

Too mighty the force for Gawain, nor I ween shall ye count it shame

That he closed the door upon them — Then in wrath and haste there came 220

The knight who to battle bade him 'fore Arthur at Plimizol

But short time back— They called him the Landgrave Kingrimursel,

And sore did Gawain's need vex him, he wrung his hands amain,

For in sooth had he pledged his honour his foe should in peace remain

Till one man alone overcame him— Old and young from the tower he drave, 225

Yet the portal would they force open, as their king commandment gave.

236 PARZIVAL

Then the Landgrave he cried on Gawain, ' Sir Knight, I wodd in to thee
As a friend, that this bitter conflict I may share, if it so must be,
For then must my monarch slay me, or leave thee in life to-day.'
^3ß Peace Gawain would swear unto him, and he made to the tower his way —
Then doubtful, the foemen thronging, their hand for a space must hold,
For their Burg-grave he was, and his bidding had they hearkened both young

and old.
Then, as ceased the noise of battle, thro* the doorway he sprang, Gawain,
And the Landgrave, he stood beside him, swift and bold were those heroes

twain.

235 Quoth King Veiigulacht, ' Why tarry ? Why stand we here as on guard.
When of foemen but two shall dare us, and none other the tower gates ward ?
Much my cousin doth take upon him, when he dareth to shield my foe.
Yea, himself should wreak vengeance on him, if his faith he were fiiin to
show I '

Of true heart then they chose a true man, and unto the king he spake,
240 ^ Now, Sire, upon our Landgrave no vengeance we think to take,
Nor shall harm at our hand befäll him— May God so turn thy mind
That, instead of shaming, honour thou shalt from this venture find.
For shame shall it bring upon thee, and an ending to thy fair fame.
If he who as host doth hail thee shall here at thine hand be slain. •
^5 And thy kinsman is he, this other who hath brought him into this land ;
So, lest cursing and shame be thy portion, we pray thee to stay thine hand.
And grant thou a truce thro* the daylight, and the fleeting hours of night.
Then bethink thee for shame or honour, and do as shall seem thee right ! '

' And our queen who hath ne'er known falsehood, thy sister, Antikonie,
250 See there as she standeth by him and weepeth full bitterly.

Canst thou see such sight without rueing, since one mother bare ye both ?
And bethink thee, sire, thou art wise else, thou didst send him, nothing loth,
Alone to this gentle maiden, nor further a guardian gave ;
For ker sake it were well to spare him ! ' Then the king bade those warriors
brave
955 To call a truce— He 'Id bethink him how vengeance he best might take
For his father's death— Yet all guiltless Gawain, for another's sake,
Must he bear the shame ; with a lance-thrust by Ekunat was he slain
As to Barbigöl Prince lofreit, a prisoner, he would have ta'en.

ANTIKONIE 237

Who had ridden erewhile with Gawain— In such wise the chance befell

That they deemed that Gawam had slain him— So men do the venture tell. 960

And scarce was the truce bespoken ere of men was the field bereft^

Each betook him unto his lodging, nor one on the ground was left

Then the queen threw her arms around him, and with many a kiss so sweet

She gave to her gallant cousin such rewarding as seemed her meet.

Since so bravely he stood by Gawain, and sheltered the twain from wrong, 265

And she spake, ' Now art thou my cousin, nor uniaith shall to thee belong.'

Now hearken and I will read ye that word which I spake of lale,

How a true heart sore was darkened— I ween 'twas an evil fax<t

That led Vergulacht to Schamfanson ; such deed he ne'er did learn

From sire or aye from mother, with shame did the young knight bum, 270

And torment sore and suffering his better self must know

As his sister 'gan upbraid him, small mercy the maid would show.

And thus spake the noble maiden, ' Now had it but been God's will.

That I, a man bom, might sword bear, and knighdy tasks fulfil.

To strive with me hadst thou come «here, methinks thou hadst come too 975

late, —
But now am I all defenceless, a maiden, and no num's mate.
And yet a shield I carry, and fiur its device shall be^
And honoured of all^Its blazon would I read here. Sir King, to thee,
That thou henceforth mayst know it— Pure heart and upright mind,
That true man beneath its cover a shelter may ever find. sSo

And that, o'er the gallant hero whom thou sentest unto my care,
Did I hold, and 'gainst thee, his foeman, I did, as beseemed me, bear.
For none other armour had I— And if thou repent the ill
Thou hast done to thy guest, me, thy sister, hast thou wronged more deeply

still;
For this is the right of woman, so ever 'twas told to me, 985

That if ever unto the shelter of a maiden a knight shall flee.
Then they who as foemen follow shall straightway leave their chase-
In such wise. they ever bear them who wquld not their shield disgrace —
Now, Sir Vergulacht, that thy guest fied to iji«^ as hb hope of life,
Hath loaded with shame thine honour, since thou aided, nor checked, the 090
!'

23« PARZIVAL

Then Kingrimorsel quoth sternly, * Yea, Sire, 'twas at iAy command,
That on Plimixörs plain I bade him. Sir Gawain, to seek this land.
On thy royal word safe conduct I sware him, that should he ride
Hither we twain were pledged him no evil should here betide,

^95 Save but from one foeman only — Now, Sire, thou hast here done ill
In that, spite of thine oath so knightly, thy word thou didst not fulfil
And here shall my fellows hearing give judgment betwixt us twain,
If thus thou wrongest /nVf^^j, what as ^m^mayst thou hope to gain
From us of faith and honour? — If honoiu«d thou fain wouldst be,

3^ Then, courteous, make confession that near of kin are we ;
True cousin am I, no bastard, and e'en if such chance had been,
Even then, in this thy dealing, thou hadst done me a wrong, I ween !
A knight am I in whom no man hath found a taint of shame.
And I think me that free from falsehood, yea, to death will I gu2Lrd my
fame,

305 For in God have I ever trusted, and, methinks. He holds not in store
Such fate for the days of the future as I knew not in days of yore.
Yet they who shall hear the story, how the nephew of Arthur rode
To Schamfanzon 'neath my safe-conduct, where'er shall be his abode —
An he come from the land of the Brctdh, or from France, or from Provence
fair,

310 Burgundian he, or Gallician, or the arms of Punturtois bear —

When he hear of the grief of Gawain then tny fame shall be swiftly sped.
And shame be my meed for the danger that threatened that knightly head.
At the tale of this strife shall my glory wax* narrow, and blame grow wide ;
And, as joy in the past dwelt with me, so henceforward shall shame abide.'

315 As he made an end of speaking stood a vassal the king before,
And, as Kiot himself hath told us, Liddamus was the name he bore.
And I speak here of Kiot the singer, and so sweet was I ween his song
That none wax of the hearing weary, tho' the days of their life be long.
And I rede ye to wit that Kiot of old was a Proven^l,

390 Who found writ in a book of the heathen this story of Panival.
And in French again he sang it, and I, if no wit shall fail,
Would fain in his footsteps follow, and in German would tell the tale.

Quoth the Prince Liddamus in his anger, ' Now say, what doth he do here
In the house of my lord, who his father hath slain, and hath brought anear

1

ANTIKONIE 239

The brand of shame ? My king's courage is known thro' many a land, 395

'Twould better beseem his honour to avenge him with his own hand ;
One death for the other payeth — ^and the need waxeth here as there.'
And Gawain he stood in sore pecili and fear for his life must bear.

Quoth Kingrimursel, 'Who to threaten is swift, he as swift should be

To mingle in strife, yet but lightly thy foeman he holdeth thee ! 330

An wide were the field or narrow, yet Sir Liddamus, I know well

This man were safe from thine onslaught e'en tho' shame at his hand befell,

For ne'er wouldst thou dare to ayenge it, who yet dost so loudly boast —

And swifter were we to hearken if ever in battle host

We had seen thee ride the foremost ! But strife ever wrought thee pain, 335

And afar from the field of battle to linger thou aye wast fain.

Yea, more hast thou learnt — The beginning of strife didst thou ever see.

Then hence wouldst thou fly as swiftly as a maiden is wont to flee.

And the prince who thy counsel hearkens, and doeth as thou shalt say.

Shall find that the crown he weareth but loosely shall sit alway ! ' 340

' And fain, in a joust so knightly, were I to have faced Gawain,
Nor feared me aught, for such combat had we sworn fast betwixt us twain.
And here had we fought, as fitting, 'neath the eye of the king my lord.
And wroth am I now, for dearer, methought, had he held his word 1
Now swear thou to me, Sir Gawain, when a year from this day be past, 345

To meet me again in combat — If thou 'scape my lord's wrath at last,
And thy life for a prey he leave thee, yet we twain must fight our fight.
At Plimizöl first I bade thee ; at Barbigöl, if it seem thee right.
Before Meljanz, the youthful monarch, the strife shall methinks be fought ;
And around my heart till the day come shall sorrow's wreath be wrought, 350
And gladly I'll hail that dawning, and face thee, thou hero bold,
Tho' the guerdon be but of sorrow, that shall there by thine hand be
told.'

So there, as the Landgrave bade him, the hero Gawain swore.

And his oath, and his pledge so knightly, he plighted as erst of yore.

But Duke Liddamus, he bethought him of words that he fain would say, 355

And with cunning skill and wisdom his speech did he weave that day.

Thus he spake for all men to hear him, for the time of speech was come,
' Now if strife ever call upon me, if the battle be lost or won,

240 PARZIVAL

If I fight as b ca e cm s a hero, or fly as a coward flies,
9^ If the meed of my warlike bearing be honour in all men's eyes«

Then reward me I pray. Sir Landgrave, with rewarding as I shall win ;
But if honour or praise be witfaholden I count it not me for sin 1 '

•

Nor here did his speech find ending. ' If Turnus thou fiun wouldst be,
Then good, thou shalt find me Transes ; thou mayst well wreak thy will
on me,

3^5 If so be thou hast aught against me, but 'tis iJk^u who dost boast too lood,
Yea, e'en an thou wert the highest of my peers, these princes proud ;
For Prince am I too, and Landgrave, and I have in Galicia's land
Many Burgs so hit and stately that e'en hi as Vedrun stand
And tho* thou and this Breton stranger were minded to work me ill,

S70 Yet not even a fowl for thy threatening would fly, but abide thee still ! '

' He came from the land of the Breton whom thou hither for strife didst hale.

Take tkou vengeance for king and kinsman, if such vengeance may anght

avail ; J

With Aim, not with me, thy quarrel, avenge thou thine uncle's life

On him who of life hath robbed him, it toucheth me not, this strife,
375 For I wot well in naught I wronged him, and none for such wrong makes
moan.

What need to bewail thine uncle ? His son sitteth on his throne,

And I ask for no higher ruler, since Fleurdamur, the queen,

Was his mother, his sire Kingrisein, and his grandsire Gandein hath been.

And still in my mind it dwelleth how Galoes and Gamuret,
380 Those heroes twain, were his uncles, nor lie I, nor truth forget

And I think me that in all honour my castles and lands so wide

I may take from his hand, with their banners, and serve him whatever betide ! '

' Let him fight who hath lust for fighting, for weary of strife am I,
Tho' I know well who feme in battle doth win, for his victory

385 Hath reward from the lips of women, yet for never a maiden's sake
Will I evil entreat this body, or bid it such ill-road take.
Nay, why should I be a Wolfhart ? Since barred is the battle way,
And no lust of strife hath beguiled me that I know not the thing I say.
If thou shouldst lor aye despise me, yet Rumolt I '11 take as guide, ^

390 Who gave counsel unto King Günther» ere yet to the Huns he hied

ANTIKONIE 341

For he bade him in Wonns alnde still, where was plenty and e'en to spare.
And content his soul with the flesh-pots and the riches of Rhineland fiure ! '

But ready of wit was the Landgrave, and he spake, * Yea, the tale be told
E'en to day, and no man shall marvel, for we know well thy ways of old.
Thou wouldst urge me to strife, yet thy counsel is e'en what a cook once 395

gave
To the Nibelung lord, little recked he such counsel, the hero brave.
For he and his, little doubting, went boldly to meet their fate,
And avenged was the death of Siegfried, and sated was KriemhiM's hate !
And Sir Gawain, I ween, must give me my death, or himself must feel
The weight of my bitter vengeance as we battle for woe or weal ! ' 400

* Thou dost well,' Liddamus made answer, 'yet I think me of treasure fair.

All that Arthtir might hold, or India, if one such to my feet should bear,

And say 'twas mine own, he might have it ere I fought e'en for such a prize.

An thou wilt, win thee fame and honour, I, I think me, am all too wise.

God knoweth, no Segramor am I, whom men must with fetters bind 405

So keenly for strife he lusted, &r other was aye my mind.

Yet mine be my monarch's £avour, for Sibech ne'er drew a sword,

But ever he fled with the flying, yet men hearkened well his word ;

And many for counsel prayed him, and great gifts and lands enow

The hand of Ermenrich gave him, tho' no helmet e'er felt his blow. 4x0

And Sir Kingrimursel, I rede thee, thou shalt mark me with never a scar ! '

Then out spake King Vetgulacht sternly, as he ended their wordy war :

' Peace, peace, nor so loudly wrangle. Sir Knights, all too bold are ye.
For too near is your monarch's presence, and of speech are ye both too free ;
And that thus ye should strive before me, tho' your strife be of word, not 4<5

111 beseemeth both king and vassal, so hearken my word, and heed.'

This befell in the hall of the palace, 'neath the eyes of his sister fisur.
And Gawain stood beside the maiden, and heroes and knights were there.
Quoth the king to his gentle sister, ' Now take thou with thee thy guest
And the Landgrave, while I bethink me the word that shall 'seem me best. 490
And all ye who wish well unto me, shall follow and give me rede.'
Quoth the maid, 'Of good fliith seek counsel, for better 'twill serve thy
need!'
VOL. L Q

242 PARZIVAL

Gat the king to his council-chamber ; the king's daughter had comrades

three.
Cousin, and guest, and beside them black care bare them company.
4^5 Gawain, as right well beseemed her, by the hand to her bower she led.
And she quoth, ' Now shall all lands rue it if here thou shalt be ill-sped ! '
And the son of King Lot, Sir Gawain, with the maiden went hand in hand,
And none thought them shame, for so gracious was the custom of that fair

land.

So passed, they unto her chamber, the queen and those heroes twain,

430 And that none 'gainst her will should enter was the care of her chamberlain.
Only her bower maidens as befitted them there might be.
And the queen, in all love and honour, her guest tended royally.
And the Landgrave in naught gainsaid her, for belike did he bear a part
In the fear for her guest's well-doing that lay dark on the maiden's heart.

435 So the twain with the queen abode there till the strife of the day was o'er,
And the night and the hour of feasting had come in their course once more.
Then the slender maidens bare them sweet drinks, and the wine so red.
And with fish and fowl in plenty, I ween, was the table spread.
Fair and white was the bread to look on, and the Landgrave and Knight Gawain,

440 Who had passed thro' such deadly peril, to taste of the food were fain.
And each as the queen might bid him ate that which should please him best.
And no lack did they find, for right queenly the maid did entreat her guest,
And vainly the heroes prayed her to cease from her kindly care.
Of the many who knelt before them no maid but was young and fair ;

445 Yea, fair with the opening beauty of the rose that is yet unblown.

And soft lay their locks as the feathers of a falcon the knight hath flown.

Now list, ere they close the council, to the rede they would rede the king
And wise were the men who, wisely, good counsel in need should bring ;
And each spake as his mind should bid him, and that which his heart

deemed best,
450 And they turned the thing hither and thither, till the king thus his speech

addrest :

And he spake, ' One of late fought with me, as on venture bent I rode
In the wood Laehtamreis — ^too proudly, perchance, I my steed bestrode.
For a knight, who o'er great my fame deemed, in joust smote me such a blow
That, behind my gallant charger, on the greensward he laid me low.

ANTIKONIE 243

And this oath must I swear unto him, in search of the Grail to ride, 455

And my knightly pledge I gave him, were it other, I there had died.
Now give pie, I pray, your counsel, for 'gainst death was no other shield
But to swear as my victor bade me, and, as knight, to a knight to yield ! *

* Yea, mighty and strong that hero, — nor sware I that oath alone,

But he bade me, as true man truly, when a year should have come and gone, 460

And the Grail I still were seeking, to ride unto Pelrapär

To the queen who the crown there weareth, the child of King Tampentäre.

And there, as I looked upon her, I should yield me unto her grace ;

And from him should I bear this message in the day that I sought her face.

He would say, "An she thought upon him 'twas his joy and his labour's meed, 465

His hand from the King Klamid^ aforetime her land had freed."'

Then the speech to the end they hearkened ; and Liddamus spake this word,

' Give me leave to speak, ye shall follow, Sir Knights, when my rede is heard,

For the oath that perforce thou swarest, its fulfiller shall be Gawain,

And he, captive, his wings shall flutter in the snare wherein fAou wast ta'en. 470

For here, where we stand to hearken, shall he swear us the Grail to win,

And then of free will let him ride hence ; for I deem men would count it sin

Were he slain in thine house— Nay, me-seemeth 'twere better to let him live.

For but ill would it please thy sister an thou didst not her knight forgive !

Sore stress at our hands hath he suffered, and he now to his death shall ride ; 475

For far as the far sea's water shall circle the earth so wide

There standeth no Burg so mighty as Monsalväsch, its towers shall fear

No foeman, and strait the pathway that wendeth its walls anear,

And sore dangers that road encompass— Let him slumber in peace this night,

And the word that we deem the wisest shall be told him with morning light!' 480

Right well did the counsel please them, and ended, I ween, the strife,

And Gawain, so the venture telleth, thus won at their hands his life.

So they tended the dauntless hero right well thro' the hours of night ;
P>om the Mass came the folk on the morrow when the noontide hour waxed

bright.
And the hall was thronged and crowded with townsfolk and warriors good, 485
When before the king, as they counselled, his foeman. Sir Gawain, stood.
To naught other would he compel him than to that which ye late did hear.
Now see ye the gentle maiden as she drew with her knight anear,

i

344 PARZIVAL

And her tmde'k ton came with her, and many a hero brave <

490 Of the king's men were fain to follow, and thus fair escort gave.

Then the queen led Gawain to her brother with slender hand and white,

And a diaplet of fiur flowers woven she bare on her locks of light,

Fur the flowers, yet the maid was fairer, and no blossom around her

head
But waxed pale and dim, if 'twas mated with her lips of glowing red.
495 And he whom of true heart gently she kissed, as beseemed a maid.
Such lances for her had broken as had wasted a woodland shade.

Now hearken to me and heed me, as with gracious words I Id greet

Antikonie, free from falsehood, a maiden pure and sweet

In such wise did she ever bear her that never a doubting word,

500 Were one fain to sing her praises, from the lips of men was heard ;
For no heart but wished her gladness, and no mouth but spake her free
From all thought of guile— Far-reaching, as a frdcon's eye can see.
Shone the light of her gracious presence, as the light of a balsam rare
That burnetii, and sheddeth perfume, and sweeteneth the scented air.

505 And her will was ever gracious, as the will of a maid should be.
And she spake to her royal brother of a true heart right maidenly :

' I bring here to thee, my brother, the guest thou didst bid me tend.

And I would thou shouldst well entreat him, as befitting my knight and

friend —
For better shall that beicome thee, to bear thee as brother true,
510 Than to feel the world's hate, or to teach me to hate thee, who hate ne^er

knew.'

Quoth the king, ' Nay then, my sister, an I may, so stands my will,
Thou shalt give me here thy counsel, for I think me I did but ill.
And stained thereby mine honour, and dimmed my knightly üune ;
And I deem me but little worthy that thou shouldst me as brother daim.

515 E'en if all lands should do my bidding at thy prayer would I yield them all.
Lest that sorrow of sorrows greatest, thine hatred, on me should fall 1
And honour and joy were ended an I said to thy pleading. Nay—
Sir Gawain, I here entreat thee, since for fame thou didst ride this way,
An thou knightly &me wouldst honour, so help me, that I may win

sao Anew from my sister favour, and forgiveness for this my sin.

ANTIKONIE MS

Far liefer were I to pardon the wrong thou hast done to me

Than to lose her, my sweetest sister— Now list wh»t thy task shall be.

Do thon swear to me here that truly thou wilt strive, as I erst was fein

To strive, for the Grail's feir kingdom, and the honour thou there shalt gain.'

In such wise the strife was ended, Sir Gawain fer hence must ride, . S»S

And with Sword and spear do battle, and woe fer the Grail abide.
And the Landgrave forgave his monarch the wrong that he did his word
When he brake his pledge unto Gawain— and no prince of the land but heard.

Then their swords they ungirt, and they hung them in their place on the

castle wall —
And the squires of Gawain came swiftty, and, joyfel, he hailed them all, Sd0
For not one in strife was wounded— for a man of the Burger folk,
Ere the battle waxed hot, had claimed them, and wise were the words he

spoke,
And their peace he prayed from the foemen, and he held them awhile in

ward.
Were they French, or from land of the Breton, till again to their rightfol lord
He might send them in peace--Some were children, and some were lads 535

strong and young —
And glad were their hearts when they saw him, and awhile on his neck

they hung,
And weeping they kissed Sir Gawain, yet no sorrow I ween was there.
But from joy sprang the crystal tear-drops that ran o'er their feces fair.

And one came from the land of Cornwall, Count Laiz he, and Tinal's son ;

And a noble lad was with him whose fether his death had won 540

At Schoie-de-la-Kurt, Gandelus, the son, and Gurzgrei, the sire —

(Thro' that venture full many a maiden must weep for her heart's desire)

And his aunt was the maid Liass^, and fair was the lad of face

And of feature, for Love had touched them, and had wrought them with

hand of grace.
And fain were all men to see him — Six were there those twain beside, ^

Eight lads, all of noble bearing and birth, with Gawain did ride.
And as kinsmen right well they loved him, anl they served him for payment

fair;
What payment gave he ? Meed of honour their guerdon, and tender care I

346 PARZIVAL

Then Gawain quoth unto the children, "Tis well, for I now have seen,
550 Fair kinsmen, that ye had mourned me, if slain I perchance had been,
(And well might he see their sorrow, for as yet they mourned full sore,)
Where were ye in hour of battle ? Much sorrow for ye I bore.'
Then they answered, and none spake fiüsely, 'As thou safst in the high hall

place
A hawk flew astray, and we ran thence, and joined for awhile th^ chase.'

5S5 Then all they who sat or stood there, nor ceased for awhile their gaze,
Saw well that Gawain was a true knight, and a man whom all men might

praise;
Then the king gave the leave he prayed for, and he spake unto all farewell.
Save the queen alone, and the I^andgrave, he whom men called Kingrimursel.
For the queen took the twain, and the children who followed as^ Gawain's
squires,

560 And she led them where gentle maidens should serve as she should require.
And in peace, as became fair maidens, each maid did her lady's will.
And fair were the hands and gracious that did gracious tasks fulfil

Straightway when the meal was ended Gawain from the feast uprose,
Thus Kiot hath told the story — and as blossom from root up-grows,

565 So afresh from a true heart's true faith did sorrow spring forth amain—
Quoth the hero unto the maiden, ' Now, Lady, an God be fain
To leave to me life and wisdom, wherever my way I take
True service, true knight befitting, will I do for thy gentle sake.
The rede did I hear and hearken that spake thee of falsehood free,

570 And thy fame o'er the fame of all maidens shall high as the heavens be.
And Heaven Itself shall bless thee, and thy gifts all be gifts of God !
Now, Lady, thy leave I crave here, since 'tis time on my way I rode.
Give me leave, then, and let me ride hence, for I ween for the future days
Shalt thou be thine own best defender, and thy virtue shall crown thy praise ! '

575 Then sorrow of heart was her portion that the knight thus her side must
'leave.
Sore she wept, and her gentle maidens awhile with her grief must grieve.
And the queen she spake out freely, 'An more I had done for thee.
Then my joy had o'ercome my sorrow, yet better it might not be ;

ANTIKONIE ^47

•

Little peace for thee here might blossom — but, believe me, be ill thy share,
Or should deeds of knighthood lead thee where sorrow thou needs must 580

bear,
Then, Sir Gawain, my heart findeth portion in thy lot, be it loss or gain ! '
On his mouth, with her red lips glowing, the maiden she kissed Gawain.
Then joy fled afar from the hero, and sorrow hath pierced his heart,
Too early the twain they deemed it, from each other for aye to part.

Meantime had his squires bethought them, and his steed to the palace 585

brought.
Where the boughs of a mighty linden might shadow the outer court ;
And the Landgrave's folk they sought him, and together they took their way
Without the walls ; ere they parted this grace would Sir Gawain pray.
Since his squires might no more fare with him, that the Landgrave with

them in ward
Should ride forthwith unto Beaurosch, ' There Scherules the Burg doth guard, 590
Thou shalt pray him that these fair children to Dianasdron he bring
Where many a. Breton dwelleth, and shall yield them unto the king
Or to Guinevere, his Lady' — So sware him Kingrimursel,
And, with kindly words and courteous, to Sir Gawain he bade ' Farewell.'
Short the space ere both steed and rider were clad in their mail of might 595
Kinsmen and squires, he kissed them, and alone rode that gallant knight,
For, as this his oath had bade him, to the Grail must his pathway wend,
And many a pain and peril must he know ere his task should end.

^

i

Il

BOOK IX
TREVREZENT

r

i\

ARGUMENT

Book ix. In the opening the spirit of adventure craves admission to
the heart of the poet, who would fain learn from her tidings of Parzival.
The venture telleth how the hero had riddfen long in doubt and despair,
and knew not the days of his wanderings. How he met again with Sigun^
and came to the forest of Monsalväsch, where he fought with a Knight of
the Grail. How, on Good Friday, Parnval met with a pilgrim knight who
reproached him for bearin|; arms at that Holy Tide, and bade him seek
the hermit Trevrezent.

How Parzival came to the hermit's cell, and spake of his wrath against
God, of his sorrow for his wife, and of his search for the Grail. How
Trcvrezent told him wherein he had sinned, and showed him the way of
salvation.

How the hermit further revealed to him the mysteries of the Grail, of the
Bleeding Lance, and the knives of silver ; how he told him of the wound
of Anfortas, of the race of the Grail Kings, and how Parzival himself was
nephew to Anfortas and Trevrezent. How Parzival confessed that it was
he who came to the Grail Castle and failed to ask the question ; how
Trevrezent spake to him words of comfort and counsel, and absolved him
from his sin ; and how the two parted in sorrow.

BOOK IX

TREVREZENT

PE the portal 1 ' * To whom ? Who art thou ? ' * In thine
heart would I find a place ! '

* Nay ! if such be thy prayer, methinketh, too narrow shall
be the space 1 *

* What of that ? If it do but hold me, none too close shall

my presence be,

Nor shalt thou bewail my coming, such marvels I *11 tell to thee ! *

Is it thou, then, O Dame Adventure ? Ah ! tell me of Parzival, 5

What doeth he now my hero ? whom Kondrie, to find the Grail

Hath driven, with words sharp-pointed, and sore wept the maidens fair

That the path of his far wayfarings the knight from their side must bear.

So he passed from the court of King Arthur, where shall he abide to-day ?

Ah ! hasten the tale to tell us, where now shall his footsteps stray ? lo

Say, if fame to himself he winneth, or be ever of joy bereft.

Shall his honour as fair and spotless as of old so to-day be left ?

His renown is it broad as aforetime, or waxeth it small and thin ?

Ah I tell us, nor stay the story, of the deeds that his hand shall win.

Hath he seen once again Monsalväsch, and Anfortas, the mournful king, 15

Whose heart was with sorrow laden ? Of thy pity swift comfort bring.

And say if his woe be ended — Speak, speak for we tidings pray

Of him whom alike we serve here, dwells Parzival there to-day?

Declare unto me his doings, how fares it with Gamurefs son.

And the child of fair Herzeleide, is the tale of his wanderings done ? 30

Since he rode from the court of King Arthur has joy been his lot, or woe ?

He hath striven, but rides he ever thro' the wide world nor rest doth know ?

Or loveth he now, outwearied, to linger o'er-long at ease ?

I were fain to know all his doings, so speak thou, as thou shalt please !

S61

3S2 PARZIVAL

•5 And this hath the venture told me*-He hath ridden many a land,
And hath sailM many a water; and ever, before hit hand,
Were he man of the land or kinsman who would joust with hun, he fell,
Nor abode his mighty onslaught, and all men of his praises telL
And ever when in the balance the £ame of his foe mi^st lie,

30 Twas outweighed by his üaune, and his glory uprose to the stars on high.
And all others paled before it — In many a mighty strife
With sword and lance was he victor, and guarded foil well his life.
And they who would fome win from him, for such thinking they paid full

dear—
Ihe sword that Anfortas gave him, as ye once in this tale did hear,

35 Sprang asunder onewhile, yet 'twas welded afresh in the mystic spring
By Kamant, and much fame and honour the blade to its lord did bring 1

Who believeth me not, he sinneth, for now doth the venture tell
How adown a woodland pathway, on his way rode Sir Panival,
(But the hour of his riding I wot not, if in waxing or waning light,)

40 When a hermitage, newly builded, uprose to his wondering sight.

And a stream flowed swift beneath it, for 'twas built o'er the brooklet's wave
Then in search of some worthy venture to its door rode the hero brave,
Nor knew that of grace 'twas the portal, and his footsteps of God were led.
But the dweller therein was a maiden, and the days of her joy were sped,

46 For the love of God had she offered her youth, and the joys of earth.
And the root of her old-time sorrow brought ever fresh grief to birth.

For he found here Schionatulander, and Sigun^, his foithfol love,
Dead and buried he lay, the hero, and the maid wept his tomb above.
Tho' but seldom Sigund the Duchess might hearken the Holy Mass,
50 All her life was a prayer, in God's service her nights as her days she 'Id pass.
And her lips, erst so red and glowing, had faded as life-joys fade.
And alone would she mourn such sorrow as never had mourned ä maid.

Thus denial of love's fulfilling made Love, with her love, to die,
And dead, as she living loved him, did she cherish him tenderly.
55 And in sooth had she once his wife been, then ne'er had Lunet^ braved
Her wrath, and had given such counsel, as she once to her lady gave.
And to-day may we look upon women, who never a willing ear
Had turned to Lunete, and such wisdoQi but little had brooked to hear.

TREVREZENT 253

For this do I know, that a woman who» for love of her lord alone,

And thro* virtue of gentle breeding! doth never strange service own, 60

But asre, while her husband liveth, shall be to him wife as true.

Heaven giveth in her such blessing as bloometh for ever new !

And never shall prayer or fiuting robe her with a robe as fair !

And I, if the time were fitting, this word naught but truth would swear. .

Be he dead, she may do as best please her, but if fitithful she still abide, ^5

Then hx fitirer such fiiith than the cirdet she beareth at feasting tide !

Shall I joy compare with the sorrow that her fitith to Sigun^ brought ?
Nay, 'twere better I speak not of it — O'er rough stones, and a road unwrought
Rode Parzival to the window (he deemed well he rode too near).
He would. ask of the woodland pathway, and the goal of its windings hear. 70
And he thought him, perphance, the hermit might tell of the unknown way,
' Doth one-dwell here ?' the voice of a maiden it was that made answer, 'Yea !'
As he knew 'twas the voice of a woman, swift turned he his steed aside
On the greensward beside the pathway, for he deemed he too near did ride,
And sooner had he dismounted had he known that a maiden dwelt 75

Within such a lowly dwelling, and shame, as was meet, he feh.

Then his horse and his shield, all splintered, he bound to a üaülen tree,

And he loosed his sword from beside him, for a courteous knight was he.

Then he stepped him unto the window, and asked of the place and road,

And the cell of all joy was empty, and bar^ as 'seemed griefs abode. 80

He spake, would she ccnne to the window ? and the maiden from prayer arose,

She was tall as a virgin lily, and pale as a foded rose,

And he deemed not as yet that he knew her-^A shirt woven rough of hair,

Next her skin, 'neath a flowing garment of grey, did the maiden wear.

And sonow was her heart's treasare, and &Uen her cooiage high, jj

And the guerdon she won for her service must be paid her in many a sigh !

Then the maiden she stepped to the window and the knight did she court-
eous greet,
In her hand did she hold her psalter, and her voice it was low and sweet.
And Parzival saw on her white hand the gleam of a ring of gold.
For truly she bare the token she won from true love of did. ^

And the stone set within the circlet was a garnet, whose slumbering light
Flashed red mid the dusky shadows, as mid ashes the sparks glow blight.

V

254 PARZIVAL

And the band that her head encircled was black as a mourning band —
Then she spake, 'Sir Knight, 'neath the window a bench shalt thou see to stand,
95 Thou canst sit there, an it so please thee, and thy journey will brook delay,
God reward thee for this thy greeting Who hath led thee to me this day ! '

Then the hero did as she hade him, and he sat 'neäth the window small, I

And he prayed her, ' Sit thou within there V ' Nay ! ne'er did such chance befall
That here by a man I sat me ! ' Then he asked her, what did she here ? 4

100 * That, so far from the home of men-folk, thou dost dwell in this desert drear
Seemeth me all too great a wonder, say, Lady, how shalt thou live.
Since no man abideth by thee who succour or food can give ? '

Then she quoth, * *Tis the Gmil ihat doth feed me, and It feedeth me well I

ween.
From Its marvels the sorceress Kondrie, (of her own will the task hath been,)
105 Doth bring me each Sabbath vigil what serveth me for the week.'
A little space she kept silence, then further the maid did speak :

* An it otherwise were with me as I would, I need little care

For the food, since the Grail doth feed me I never too ill shall fare I '

But he deemed that she lied unto him, and with false words would speak him
fair,

"o And, mocking, he spake, * Now, who gave thee that ring which I see thee wear ?
For ever 'twas told unto me that hermit, or man, or maid,
Must forswear all love ! ' — * Now J think me, if in truth thou these words hast

said.
For false maiden thou sure dost hold me ! Yet if falsehood I ever learn.
And thou shalt be near to witness, 'twere time tAen with wrath to bum !

115 God knoweth, ill ways I hated, and falsehood I never knew ;

This troth plight that höre thou seest I had from a lover true, I

Tho' never was love's fulfilment our portion while he might live,
'Twas the heait of maiden bade me the love of a maiden give.
And he lieth in death beside me, and his token I ever wear

I30 Since the day that Duke Orilus slew him — and grief for his sake I bear — '

* And true love will I truly give him, thro' my sorrow-laden days,

Such love as I sware unto him, when he, whon\all knights must praise, 1

With sword, and shield, and helmet, and prowess of knightly deed
Sought my love, and in true love's service won death for his glory's meed I

TREVREZENT 255

Yet tho' ever a spotless maiden, my husband he, in God's sight, 135

Shall be, and if thoughts God counteth as deeds then is woven aright ^

The bond that shall ever bind us, true husband and wife as true,

For his death wrought my life such sorrow as waxeth for ever new.

And this ring :hall, I ween, be my witness when I stand in the sight of God

Of a marriage vow and the tear-drops that bedew it are tears of blood.' 130

* Yea, 'tis I indeed, and none other, and the hero who here doth lie
Is my knight, Schionatulander, and the maid of his love am 1 1 '

Then he knew 'twas the maid Sigun^, and her sorrow it wrought him pain,
And he lifted his helmet's visor ere he spake to the maid again.
And she saw his head uncovered, and she saw his face gleam white ^^c

Thro' the rust of the iron harness, and she spake to the gallant knight :

* Is it thou, Parzival, my kinsman ? Dost thou seek for the Grail to-day ?
Or its mighty power hast thou proven ? Say, whither dost wend thy way ? '

Then he spake to the noble maiden, ^ Alas ! for my joy is fled,

And the Grail hath but wi'ought me sorrow, and mischance in fair fortune's 1:0

stead.
For the land that as king had crowned me must I leave, and yet more, I ween,
The fairest of wives, and the sweetest, that ever a man hath seen.
For no lovelier form I think me on earth of mankind was bom,
And I yearn for her tender greeting, and full sore for her love I moum !
And yet know I a deeper sorrow and I strive for a higher prize, 145

For the day when the Burg of Monsalväsch, and the Grail shall rejoice my

eyes !
Now, Sigunö, dear my cousin, thou wast all too wroth with me.
For heavy indeed my sorrow, yet thou fain wouldst my foeman be ! '

And she quoth, * From henceforth, my cousin, mine anger will I forswear,

For too much of thy joy lieth forfeit since the question thou didst forbear ! 150

And I would not too sorely grieve thee — Alas ! that thou didst withhold

The word that had brought thee honour, and the tale of his griefs had told

Who sat there as thine host beside thee — nor thine host alone was he,

Anfortas, for joy and blessing his p/^esence had brought to thee !

And thy question great bliss had brought thee, and thy silence had wrought '55

thee woe.
And thy spirit shall' fail, and heart-sorrow as thy comrade thou well shalt

know.

3S6 PARZIVAL

And yet had it been fiu: fipom thee» nor, a stranger, had tovght thy tide^
Hadst thoa asked of that Burg the marveb, and what ill did its host betide !'

'Yea, I did there as one who wrongeth himself yet my cousin dear
i6o I prithee here give me coonsel, since in sooth are we kinsmen near.
And tell me, how fiu«s it with thee? I would sorrow for this thy woe
Were my sorrow not all too heavy ! Greater grief man may never know !'

Then she quoth, * May His Mercy hdp thee, Who knoweth of all men's woe, i
Perchance it may yet be&ll thee that His finger a way shall show
i^S That shall lead thee once more to Monsalväsch, and thine heart's bliss afiesh

shall spring.
Tis but ^ort space since Kondrie left me, and I would I could tidings

bring
Of whither she went, but I asked not if she rode to the Burg again,
Or passed elsewhere ; but when she cometh by that streamlet she draweth

rein.
Where, from cleft in the high rock riven, the waters flow fresh and clear. c

170 It may be, if thou follow swiftly, that she rideth as yet anear.

And, perchance, thou shalt overtake her.' Then the knight he made no delay
But &rewell did he bid to the maiden ; and he followed the woodland way.
And fresh were the tracks before him, but such pathway the mule must

choose
Thro' the depths of the dusky thicket that its traces he soon must lose.
175 As the Grail he had lost of aforetime, so he lost It again to-day.
And joy and delight fled with It— Yea, had he but found the way.
And reached once again Monsalväsch, for better than erst of old
Had he known how to ask the question—thus in sooth is the venture told.

So now let him ride, but whither? Lo, a knight with uncovered head,
xSo And blazoned coat o'er his shining harness, foil swiftly towards him sped !
And to Parrival thus quoth he, * Sir Knight, I must deem it ill
That thus thro* the woods of my monarch thou takest thy way at will t
Begone ! or receive such token thou shalt wish thyself for from here 1
Monsalväsch doth liever brook it that men ride thus its walls anear,
X85 And here must thou strive in battle, and win here a victor's fome.

Or such penance be thine, as without there^ in the open, men Deafk shall i
namet'

TREVREZENT 257

And he bare in his hand a helmet, and its bands were of silken sheen,
Sharp-pointed his spear, and the spear-shaft was of wood new and strong I

ween!
And wrathful he bound his helmet on his head, not in vain should be
His threat, for his blows should enforce it ! Now ready for joust was he ; 190
But many a spear as goodly had splintered 'fore Parzival,
And he thought, ' Now, it well had chanced me, that death to my lot should

fall
If I rode thro' the com upstanding — then reason had he for wrath,
But now hath he none, since I ride here on naught but a woodland path,
And I tread here but fern and heather ! An mine hand shall not lose its 195

skill
I will leave him such pledge for my journey as, I think me, shall please him

ill!'

Then they rode at full speed their chargers, and they urged them with spur

and rein.
As the bolt from the bow of the archer so swift flew those heroes twain,
And the first joust they rode unwounded ; but many a knightly fray
Unscathed had Parzival ridden, and e'en so should it chance to-day. 200

(Unto skill and the lust of battle must his father's son be heir.)
His lance-point upon the fastening of his foeman's hebxi struck fair.
And it smote him where men in jousting their shield are wont to hold,
And down from his gallant charger did he bear him, the Templar bold.
And the knight of the Grail fell headlong down the side of a rocky dell, 205

Tho' couch he had found, I think me, he slumbered not over well.

But the victor's steed sped onward, and in vain would he check its flight
Ere it fell, and well-nigh in falling had borne to his death the knight.
A cedar o'erhung the chasm, its bough Parzival gripped fast,
(Nor think ye scorn of my hero, that, as chanceth a thief at last, aio

^ He hung, for none spake his judgment, he hung there by his own hand)
His feet, for a foothold seeking, on the rock found at last their stand :
Far out of his reach, beneath him, his gallant steed lay dead.
Up the further side of the valley the Templar for safety fled.
Think ye that he much might pride him on his token from Parzival ? 215

Far better at home in Monsalväsch had he fared with the wondrous Grail 1
VOL. I. R

I

258 PARZIVAL

To the plain once more climbed our hero, there the steed of the Templar
stood,

For down to the ground hung the bridle and fettered the war-horse good.

As the knight in his flight fixtgat it so it stood where its master fell,
aao Swift Pandval sprang to the saddle, such booty might please him well.

Of a truth his spear had he shattered, yet more than he lost he won —

Nor Lähelein, nor Kingrisein a better joust e'er had run t

Nor King Gramoflanz nor Count Laskoit (the son he of Gumemanz).

Onward he rode, yet wandering, nor further befell mischance,
aas Nor strife, from the knights of Monsalväsch, yet one grief must vex his soul,

He found not the Grail — Ever further he rode, further fled the goal !

Now he who my song will hearken, he shall hear that which yet befell,

Tho' the tale of the weeks I know not, that had flown since Sir Parzival

Had met with the maid, and had ridden on venture as aye before —
330 One morning the ground was snow-clad, and tho' thin vras the cloak it bore

Yet so thick it was that men, seeing, had deemed it the time of frost ;

As he rode thro' the depths of a woodland by a knight was his pathway
crossed,

And old was the knight, and grey bearded, yet his face it was bright and
fair,

And his lady who walked beside him like mien to her lord did bear.
235 And each on their naked body wore a garment of horse-hair grey,

For penance and pilgrimage minded they wended afoot their way.

And their children, two gentle maidens, such as men's eyes are fain to see,

In like garments they followed barefoot, e'en as pilgrims are wont to be.

Then our hero the old knight greeted as he passed on his lowly way,
240 And good was the rede, and holy, that he heard from his lips that day.
And a prince of the land he seemed him— By each maiden a brächet ran,
And with humble mien and reverent paced master alike and man.
For both knight and squire they followed on this holy pilgrimage.
And some, they were young and beardless, and some were bent low with age.

345 But Parzival, our hero, he was clad in £ar other wise.

In fair raiment, rich and costly, he rode in right knightly guise,

And proudly he ware his harness, and unlike were the twain I ween,

The old maa in his robe of penance and the knight in his armour's sheen t

TREVREZENT 259

Then swiftly he turned his bridle and held by the pathway side,
For iaan would he know of their journey, and friendly the knight replied. 350
But a sorrow the old man deemed it that one to this Holy Tide
' Should have ^IM to give due honour, but in warlike gear should ride.
For better would it befit him unarmM this day to greet,
Or like them to walk barefooted, and in garb for a sinner meet t

Quoth Parsival, * Nay, I know not what the time of the year may be, 355

Or how men the tale may reckon of the weeks as they swiftly flee,

How the days shall be named I know not, long have I forgot such lore !

Of old time I served a master, and GodwBs the name He bore.

But He bare unto me no fiivour, and for guerdon He mocking gave,

Tho* ne'er had my heart turned from Him — Men said, ' If from God ye crave a6o

For succour, He sure will give it ;' but I deem well they spake a lie.

For He who they said would help me, did help unto me deny ! '

Quoth the grey-haired knight, * Dost thou mean Him who was once of a

Maiden bom ?
Dost believe that a Man for men's sake He died on the cross this mom.
And this day for His sake we hallow ? Then such garb becomes thee ill t 965
For to-day all men call Good Friday, and the world it rejoiceth still
O'er the day that her chains were riven ; tho' she moumeth her Saviour's pain.
Speak, knowest thou of faith more faithful than the faith God hath kept with

men,
Since He hung on the cross for men's sake? Such woe as He bare for thee.
Sir Knight, sure must work thee sorrow, since baptized thou shalt surely be ! 970
For imr sin His life was forfeit, or else had mankind been lost.
And Hell as his prey had held us, and Hell's torments had paid sin's cost.
Sir Knight, if thou be not heathen, thou shalt honour this Holy Day—
So do thou as here I counsel, ride thou on this woodland way.
For near here a hermit dwelleth, as thy speech, so his rede shall be, 275

And if ruth for ill deed thou showest of thy sin will he speak {hee free ! '

*

Then out quoth the old man's daughter, ' Nay, father, but speak not so.

For too chill and cold is the morning, thou shalt bid him no further go.

Far better to bid him warm him his steel-clad limbs, for strong

And fair shall he be to look on, and the way is both cold and long. 2SQ

Methinks were he thrice as mighty he would frebze ere his goal he reach.

And here hast thou tent for shelter, and viands for all and each.

26o PARZIVAL

Came King Arthur and all his vassals thoa wouldst still have enoug^h I trow.
So do thou as host so kindly, and good-will to this young knight show ! '

385 Quoth the grey-haired sire, ' My daughters, Sir Knight, here give counsel good,
Each year, with tent of pilgrim, I wend thro' this lonely wood.
If warm or cold be the season I care not, as year by year
The time of our dear Lord's Passion draweth once more anear.
He rewardeth His servant's service — Sir Knight, w^at I, for His sake,

ago Brought here, as my guest, right willing, I pray thee from me to take ! '

And kindly they spake, the maidens, and they bade the knight to stay,
And with gracious mien they prayed naught might drive him from them

away.
And tho' cold was the frost and bitter, and it wrought not as summer's heat.
Yet Parzival saw their lips glow so red, and soft, and sweet.

99s (Tho' they wept for the death of the Siviour, such sorrow became them well.)
And here, had I cause for vengeance, an such happy chance befell,
I never would speak them guiltless, but a kiss should their penance be,
Nor against their will would I take it, of good- will should they give it me !
For women shall aye be women, and tho' brave be the knight, and strong,

3^ Yet I ween is he oft the vanquished, nor the strife it endureth long !

With sweet words, and ways so gentle, they ever the knight would pray.

Children alike and parents, and fiiin would they have him stay :

Yet he thought, ' It were best I leave them, for e'en if I turn aside

All too fair methinks are these maidens, 'twere unfitting that / should ride

30s While tAey by my side walk barefoot — And 'tis better that we should part,
Since ever I bear Him hatred Whom they worship with lowly heart.
And they look for His aid, Who ever hath tumM His face from me.
Nor from sorrow hath He withheld me, but hath wrought with me heavily ! '
' Knight and Lady,' he quoth, * I think me 'twere better I leave should pray,

310 May good fortune be yours, and blessing, and fiilness of joy alway.
And may you, ye gentle maidens, find reward in your courtesy,
Since so well ye had thought to serve me, fair leave would I pray from ye ! '
He greeted them, low they bowed them, and greeted the knight again.
Nor might they withhold their sorrow, for parting aye bringeth pain I

315 So the son of Heneleide rode onward, well taught was he
In all manly skill and courage^ in mercy and purity ;

^ TREVREZENT 261

And his mother had aye bequeathed him her faithful heart and true —
Yet ever his soul waxed sadder, and there sprang up thoughts anew
Of the might of the Maker of all things, Who hath made this earth of naught,
How He dealeth with all creation, and still on His power he thought 330

' How might it yet be if God sent me that which brought to an end my woe ?
If ever a knight He favoured, if ever a knight might know
His payment for service done Him— if He thinketh.His aid they earn
^ Who dauntless shall wield their weapons, and ne'er from a foeman turn,

Let Him aid me, who bear unstainM shield and sword as befits a man, 3^5

If to-day be His Day of Redemption, let Him help me, if help He canJ

Backward he turned his bridle on the road he had ridden before.
And the knight and his children stood there, and mourned for the parting sore.
And the maidens, true and gentle, gazed after the passing knight.
And his heart spake, he fain had seen them once more those maidens 330
bright

I Then he spake, ' Is God's power so mighty that He giiideth upon their way
The steed alike and the rider, then His hand may I praise to-day !
If God sendeth help from heaven, then let Him my charger show
The goal which shall bless my journey, so shall I the token know.
Now, go thou as God shall lead thee ! ' and bridle and bit he laid 335

Free on the neck of his charger and spurred it adown the glade.

Towards Fontaine-Sauvage the road led, and the chapel where once he

sware
The oath that should clear Jeschut^ — A holy man dwelt there,
And Trevrezent men called him, and ever on Monday mom
I Poor was his fare, and no richer it waxed as the week wore on. 340

Nor wine nor bread he tasted, nor food that with blood was red.
Fish nor flesh, but his life so holy on the herb of the ground was fed.
And ever his thoughts, God-guided, were turning to Heaven's land,
And by fasting the wiles of the Devil he deemed he might best withstand.

And to Parzival the mystery of the Grail should he now reveal — 345

And he, who of this hath asked me, and since silence my lips must seal
I Was wroth with me as his foeman, his anger might naught avail.
Since I did but as Kiot bade me, for he would I should hide the tale,

263 PARZIVAL

And tell unto none the secret» till the venture so far were sped
350 That the hidden should be made open, and the marvel of men be read.

For Kiot of old, the master whom men spake of in days of yore,
Far off in Toledo's city, found in Arabic writ the lore
By men cast aside and forgotten, the tale of the wondrous Grail ;
But first must he learn the letters, nor black art might there avaiL
355 By the grace of baptismal waters, by the light of our Holy Faith,
He read the tale, else 'twere hidden ; for never, the story saith,
Might heathen skill have shown us the virtue that hidden lies
In this nughty Grail, or Its marvels have opened to Christian eyes.

Twas a heathen, Flegetanis, who had won for his wisdom fiune,
360 And saw many a wondrous vision, (from Israel's race he came.
And the blood of the kings of old-time, of Solomon did he share,)
He wrote in the days long vanished, ere we as a shield might bear
The cross of our Holy Baptism 'gainst the craft and the wiles of Hell,
And he was the first of earth's children the lore of the Grail to tell.
365 By his other's side a heathen, a calf he for God did hold,
How wrought the devil such folly, on a folk so wise, of old ?
And the Highest Who knoweth all wonders, why stretched He not forth His

Hand
To the light of His truth to turn them ? For who may His power withstand !

And the heathen, Flegetanis, could read in the heavens high
370 How the stars roll on their courses, how they circle the silent sky,

And the time when their wandering endeth — ^and the life and the lot of men
He read in the stars, and strange secrets he saw, and he spake again
Low, with bated breath and fearful, of the thing that is called the Grail,
In a cluster of stars was it written, the name, nor their lore shall faiL
375 And he quoth thus, ' A host of angels this marvel to earth once bore,

But too pure for earth's sin and sorrow the heaven they sought once more,
And the sons of baptized men hold It, and guard It with humble heart,
And the best of mankind shall those knights be who have in such service
part'

Then Kiot my master read this, the tale Flegetanis told,
380 And he sought for the name of the people, in Latin books of old.

TREVREZENT 263

Who of God were accounted worthy for thb wondrous Grail to care,

Who were true and pure in their dealings and a lowly heart might bear.

And in Britain, and France, and Ireland thro* the chronicles he sought

Till at length, in the land of Anjou, the story to light was brought.

There, in true and faithful record, was it written of Mazadan, 3^5

And the heroes, the sons of his body, and further the story ran.

How Titurel, the gcandsire, left his kingdom to Frimutel,

And at length to his son, Anfortas, the Grail and Its heirdom fell :

That his sister was Herzeleide, and with Gamuret she wed

And bare him for son the hero whose wanderings ye now have read. 390

For he rideth upon a journey that shall lead him a road unknown^

Tho' the grey knight but q(ow had wended his way from the fountain lone.

And he knew again the meadow, tho* now the snow lay white

On the ground that erst was blooming with flowers of springtide bright.

rrwas before the rocky hillside where his. hand must wipe away 395

The stain from Jeschut^s honour, and her husband's wrath allay.

Yet still the road led onward, to Fontaine- Sauvage, the name

Of the goal that should end his journey and his hermit host he came.

Then out spake the holy hermit, ' Alas, why doest thou so,

Sir Knight ? at this Holy Season 'tis ill thus armed to go. 400

Dost thou bear perchance this harness thro' strife and danger dared ?

Or hast thou unharmed ridden, and in peace on thy way hast fared ?

Other robe had beseemed thee better I List not to the voice of pride,

But draw thy rein here beside me, and with me for a space abide.

Not all too ill shalt thou fare here, thou canst warm thee beside my fire. 405

Dost thou seek here for knightly venture, and dost guerdon of love desire.

If the power of true Love constrain thee, then love Him who Love may

claim!
As this day to His Love beareth witness, be His service to-day thine aim.
And serve for the love of fair women, if it please thee, another day ;
But now get thee from off thy charger, and awhile from thy wanderings stay.' 410

Then Parzival,^e'en as he bade him, ;q^rang lightly unto the ground ;
Humbly he stood before him, as he told how he folk had found
Who had told of the hermit's dwelling, and the counsel he wisely gave,
And he spake, * I am one who hath sinnM, and rede at thy lips I crave ! '

264 PARZIVAL

415 As he spake the hermit answered» ' Right gladly 1 11 counsd thee,

But, say, what folk hast thou met with ? Who showed thee thy way to me ?
' In the wood I met with an old man grey-headed, and fair he spake.
And kindly, I ween, were his people, he bade me this road to take.
On his track my steed came hither.' Then answered the hermit old,

490 * Twas Kahenis, and his praises shall ever by men be told.
A prince of the land of Punturtois, and his sister Kareis' king
Hath taken to wife — Fairer maidens no mother to earth did bring
Than those maidens twain, his daughters, who met thee upon thy road,
Of a royal house, yet yearly he seeketh thb poor abode 1 '

425 Then Parzival spake to the hermit, * Now say, when thou saw'st me here.
Didst thou shrink from my warlike coming, didst thou feel no touch of fear ? '
Quoth the hermit, ' Sir Knight, believe me, far oftener for stag or bear
Have I feared than I feared a man's face, in sooth shalt thou be aware
I fear me for no man living 1 Both cunning and skill have I,

430 And the' I were loath to vaunt me, yet I ne'er to this life did fly
For fear, as beseems a maiden ! For never my heart did quail
When I faced as a knight my foeman, and ne*er did my courage fail.
In the days when such things became me, in the days when I too might fight,
I was SLTmhd as thou art arm^ like thee did I ride, a knight !

435 And I strove for high love's rewarding, and many an evil thought
With the pure mind within me battled, and ever my way 1 wrought
To win from a woman fovour ! All that was in time of yore.
And my body, by fasting wasted, remembereth those days no more.'

' Now give to mine hand the bridle, for there 'neath the rocky wall
440 Thy steed shall abide in safety, and we, ere the night shall fall,
Will gather of bough and herbage, since no better food may be,
Yet I trust that both thou and thy charger fare not all too ill with me !'
But Parzival deemed that surely 'twas unfitting a hermit old
Should thus lead his steed, and the bridle he would fain from his hand
. withhold,
445 ' Now courtesy sure forbids thee to strive 'gainst thine host's good-will.
Let not haste from the right path lead thee, but follow my counsel still.'
In this wise spake the old man kindly, as he bade him, so did the knight,
And the charger he led 'neath the hillside where but seldom did sun-rays
light.

TREVREZENT 265

In sooth 'twas a wondrous stable where the hermit the steed would stall,

And thro* it, from heights overhanging, foamed ever a water-fall. ^Sß

The snow lay beneath our hero, no weakling was he, I ween,

Else the frost and the cold of his harness o'er-much for his strength had been.

To a cavern the hermit led him where no breath of wind might blow,

And a fire of coals had warmed it, and burned with a ruddy glow.

And here might the guest refresh him by the fire and a taper's light, 455

(Well strewn was the ground with fuel,) then swiftly the gallant knight

Laid from off him his heavy annour, and warmed his limbs so cold.

And his skin in the light glowed ruddy, and his üice might the host behold.

He might well be of wandering weary, for never a trodden way

Nor a roof save the stars of heaven had he known for many a day. 460

In the daylight the wood had he ridden, and his couch, it had been the

ground:
'Twäs well that he here a shelter, and a kindly host had found !

Then his host cast a robe around him, and he took him by his right hand,
And he led him into a cavern where his Missal did open stand«
And as fitted the Holy Season the Altar was stripped and bare ; 4^

And the shrine — Parzival must know it, 'twas the spot whei-e he once did

swear
With true Hand, true oath and faithful, that ended Jeschut^'s woe,
And turned her tears to laughter, and taught her fresh joy to know !

^uoth Parzival, ' Well I know it this chapel and shrine ! Of yore,

As hither my wanderings led me, an oath on that shrine I swore ; 470

And a spear, with fair colours blazoned, that did here by the altar stand

I bare hence, and in sooth, I think me, right well did it serve my hand 1

Men say it much honour brought me, yet I wot not if it be so,

For in thoughts of my wife had I lost me, and naught of the thing I know.

Yet, unwitting, two jousts had I ridden, and two foemen I overthrew, 475

In those days all men gave me honour, nor sorrow nor shame I knew.

Now, alas ! is my sorrow greater than ever to man befell !

Say, when did I bear the spear hence ? The days of my wanderings tell ! '

* It was Taurian,' quoth the hermit, ' who his spear in my care did leave,

And much did he mourn its losing, and I with the knight must grieve. 480

a66 PARZIVAL

And loiir ywn and a half and three days shall have passed since we lost

die spear,
Sir Knight, an my word thou doubtest, behold 1 it is written here 1 '
Then he showed onto him in the Psalter how the time it had come and gone.
And die weeks and the years he read him that silent and swift had flown.
4ßS And he spake, 'Now first do I learn them, the days that I aimless stray,
And the weeks and the years that have vanished, since my joy hath been reft

away.'
And he spake^ * Now indeed me-seemeth that my bHss it was btit a dream,
For heavy the load of sorrow that so long hath my portion been t '

* And, Sir Host, I yet more would tell thee^ where cloister or church shall be
490 And men unto God give honour, there no eye hath looked on me.

And naught but strife have I sought me, tho* the time as thou sayst be long,

For I against God bear hatred, and my wrath ever waxeth strong.

For my sorrow and shame hath He cherished, and He watched them greater

grow
Till too high they waxed, and my gladness, yet living. He buried low 1
495 And I think were God ftun to help me other anchor my joy had found

Than this, which so deep hath sunk it, and with sorrow hath closed it round.
A man's heart is mine, and sore wounded, it acheth, and acheth still.
Yet once was it glad and joyous, and free from all thought of ill !
Ere sorrow her crown of sorrow, thorn-woven, with stem hand pressed
500 On the honour my hand had won me o'er many a foeman's crest I
And I do well to lay it on Him, the burden of this my shame,
Who can help if He will, nor withholdeth the aid that men fain would claim,
But me alone, hath He helped not, whatever men of Him may speak,
But ever He tumeth from me, and His wrath on my head doth wreak ! '

505 Then the hermit beheld him sighing, * Sir Knight, thou shalt put away
Such madness, and trust God better, for His help will He never stay.
And His aid to us here be given, yea, alike unto me and thee.
But ' twere best thou shouldst sit beside me, and tell here thy tale to me, '
And make to me free ^confession — How first did this woe begin ?

510 What foe shall have worked such folly that God should thine hatred
win?
Yet first would I pray thee, courteous, to hearken the word I say,
For fain would I speak Him guiltless, ere yet thou thy plaint shall lay

TREVREZENT 267

'Gainst Him, Who denieth never unto sinful man His aid»
But ever hath answered truly, who truly to Him hath prayed.'

* Tho' a layman I was yet ever in books might I read and learn 515

How men, for His help so faithful, should ne'er from His service turn.

Since aid He begrudged us never, lest our soul unto Hell should fall,

And as God Himself shall be £uthful, be thou faithful whatever befall ;

For false ways He ever hateth — and thankful we aye should be

When we think of the deed, so gracious, once wrought of His love so free ! S^o

For our sake the Lord of Heaven in the likeness of man was made,

And Truth is His name, and His nature, nor from Truth shall He e'er have

strayed.
And this shalt thou know mdst surely, God breaketh His faith with nom.
Teach thy thoughts ne'er from Him to waver, since Himself and His ways

are One 1'

' Wouldst thou force thy God with thine anger? He who heareth that thou 5^5

hast sworn
Hatred against thy Maker, he shall hold thee of wit forlorn !
Of Lucifer now bethink thee, and of those who must share his fall.
Bethink thee, the angel nature was free from all taint of gall,
Say, whence sprang that root qf evil which spurred them to endless strife,
And won its reward in Hell's torments, and the death of an outcast life ? 530
Ashtaroth, Belcimon, and Belat, Rhadamant, yea, and many more !
Pride and anger the host of Heaven with Hell's colours have painted o'er ! '

' When Lucifer and his angels thus sped on their downward way.

To fill their place, a wonder God wrought from the earth and clay :

The son of His hands was Adam, and from fiesh of Adam, Eve 535

He brought, and for Eve*s transgression, I ween, all the world doth grieve.

For she hearkened not her Creator, and she robbed us of our bliss.

And two sons sprang forth from her body, and the elder he wrought amiss.

Since envy so worked upon him that from wrath there sprang disgrace.

And of maidenhood did he rob her who was mother of all his race ! 540

Here many a one doth question, an the tale be to him unknown,

How might such a thing have chancM? It came but by sin alone !'

Quoth Parzival, ' Now, I think me that never such thing might be,
And ' twere better thou shouldst keep silence, than tell such a tale to me !

^

268 PARZIVAL

545 Fot who should have borne the &ther, whose son, as thou sayest, reft
Maidesnhood from his father's mother ? Such riddle were better left ! '
But the hermit again made answer, ' Now thy doubt will I gut away,
O'er my falsehood thou canst bemoan thee if the thing be not truth I say,
For the Earth was Adam's mother, of the Earth was Adam fed,

550 And I ween, tho' a man she bare here, yet still was the Earth a maid.
And here will I read the riddle, he who robbed her of maidenhood
Was Cain the son of Adam, who in wrath shed his brother's blood :
For as on the Earth, so stainless, the blood of the guiltless fell,
Her maidenhood fled for ever 1 And true is the tale I tell.

555 For wrath of man and envy, Xht^ Cain did they wake to life,
And ever from that day forward thro' his sin there ariseth strife.'

' Nor on earth shall aught.be purer than a maiden undefiled.

Think how pure must be a maiden, since God was a Maiden's Child !

Two men have been bom of maidens, and God hath the likeness ta'en

560 Of the son of the first Earth- Maiden, since to help us He aye was fain.
TUus grief alike and gladness from the seed of Adam spring.
Since He willed to be Son of Adam, Whose praises the angels sing.
And yet have we sin as our birthright, and sin's pain must we ever bear,
Nor its power may we flee 1 Yet pity He feeleth for our despair,

565 Whose Strength is aye linked with Atercy, and with Mercy goes hand in
hand.
And for man, as a Man, He suffered, and did falsehood by truth withstand.'

' No longer be wroth with thy Maker ! 7f thou wouldst not thy soul were lost —
And here for thy sin do penance, nor longer thus rashly boast.
For he who, with words untamed, is fain to avenge his wrong,

570 His own mouth shall, I ween, speak his judgment ere ever the time be long.
Learn faith from the men of old-time, whose rede ever waxeth new.
For Plato alike and the Sibyls in their day spake words so true.
And long years ere the time had ripened His coming they did foretell
Who made for our sin's Atonement, and drew us from depths of Hell.

575 God's Hand from those torments took us, and God's Love lifted us on high.
But they who His love disdained, they yet in Hell's clutches lie ! '

' From the lips of the whole world's Lover came a message of love and peace, \
( For He is a Light all-lightening, and never His faith doth cease,)

TREVREZENT 269

And he to whom love He showeth, findeth aye in that Love his bliss,
Yet twofold I ween is the message, and His token some read amiss ; S^o

For the world may buy, as it pleaseth, God's Wrath or His Love so great.
Say, which of the twain wilt thou choose here, shall thy guerdon be Love or

Hate?
For the sinner without repentance, he flieth God's faith and Face,
But he who his sin confesseth, doth find in His presence grace !'

•

* From the shrine of his heart, who shall keep Him ? Tho' hidden the thought 585

within,
And secret, and thro' its darkness no sunbeam its way may win,
(For thought is a secret chamber, fast locked, tho' no lock it bear,)
Yet, tho* against man it be closed, God's light ever shineth there.
He pierceth the wall of darkness, and silent and swift His spring.
As no sound betrayed His coming, as no footstep was heard to ring, 590

So silent His way He goeth — ^And swift as our thoughts have flown.
Ere God passed of our heart the threshold, our thoughts unto Him were

known !
And the pure in heart He chooseth ; he who doth an ill deed begin.
Since God knoweth the thoughts of all men, full sorely shall rue his sin.
And the man who by deeds God's favour doth forfeit, what shall he gain ? 595
Tho' the world count him honour- worthy, his soul seeketh rest in vain.
And where wilt thou seek for shelter if God as thy foeman stand.
Who of wrath or of love giveth payment, as men serve Him, with equal hand ?
Thou art lost if thy God be against thee— If thou wouldst His favour earn,
Then away from thy wrath and thy folly thy thoughts to His goodness turn ! ' 600

Quoth Parzival, *Here I thank thee, from my heart, that such feithful rede
Thou hast given of him who withholdeth from no man his rightful meed,
But e\'il, as ^ood, requiteth — Yet my youth hath been full of care,
And my faith hath but brought me sorrow, and ill to this day I fare ! '

Then the hermit he looked on the Waleis, ' If a secret be not thy grief, 605

Right willing thy woe I '11 hearken, I may bring thee perchance relief;

Of some counsel may I bethink me such as yet to thyself dost fail ! '

Quoth Parzival, ' Of my sorrows the chiefest is for the Grail,

And then for my wife — none fairer e'er hung on a mother's breast.

For the twain is my heart yet yearning, with desire that ne*er findeth rest' 6x0

370 PARZIVAL

Quoth his host, '^Well, Sir Knight, thou speakeBt, sacfa sorrow is good to

bear;
If thus lor the wife of thy bosom thy heart knoweth grief and care,
And Death find thee a finithful husband, tho' Hell vex thee with toiments

dire
Yet thy pains shall be swiftly ended, God will draw thee from out Hell-fire.
615 But if for the Graiithaa grievest, then much must I mourn thy woe,
O ! foolish man, since fruitless thy labours, for thou shalt know
That none win the Grail save those only whose names are in Heaven known»
They who to the Grail do service, they are chosen of God alone ;
And mine eyes have surely seen this, and sooth is the word I say ! '
6ao Quoth Parzival, 'Thou hast been there?' 'Sir Knight,' quoth the hermit,

*Yca!'
But never a word spake our hero of the marvels himself had seen,
But he asked of his host the story,, and what men by 'The Grail' should

mean ? •

Spake the hermit, ' Full well do I know this, that many a knightly hand
Serveth the Grail at Monsalväsch, and from thence, throughout all the

land,
625 On many a distant journey these gallant Templars fare.

Whether sorrow or joy befall them, for their sins they this penance bear ! '

' And this brotherhood so gallant, dost thou know what to them shall give
* Their life, and their strength and their valour — then know, by a s^one they
live.
And that stone is both pure and precious — Its name hast thou never heard ?
^ Men call it Lapis Exiiis — by its magic the wondrous bird.
The Phoenix, becometh ashes, and yet doth such virtue flow
From the stone, that afresh it riseth renewed from the ashes glow,
And the plumes that erewhile it moulted spring forth yet more fiur and
bright—
' And tho' üiint be the man and feeble, yet the day that his failing sight
635 Beholdeth the stone, he dies not, nor can, till eight days be gone.
Nor his countenance wax less youthful — If one daily behold that stone,
(If a man it shall be, or a maiden 'tis the same,) for a hundred years.
If they look on its power, their hair groweth not grey, and their iux appears
The same as when first they saw it, nor their flesh nor their bone shall fail
640 But young they abide for ever-— And this stone all men call the GraiL'

TREVREZ£NT 271

^ And Its holiest power, ajad the highest shall I ween be renewed to-day,

For ever upon Good Friday a messenger takes her way.

From the height of the highest Heaven a Dove on her flight doth wing,

And a Host, so white and holy, she unto the stone doth bring.

And she layeth It down upon It ; and white as the Host the Dove 645

That, her errand done, swift wingeth her way to the Heaven above.

Thus ever upon Good Friday doth it chance as I tell to thee :

And the stone from the Host receiveth all good that on earth may be

Of food or of drink, the earth beareth as the fulness of Paradise.

All wild things in wood or in water, and all that 'neath Heaven flies, 650

To that brotherhood are they given, a pledge of God's favour fair,

For His servants He ever feedeth and the Grail for their needs doth care ! '

' Now hearken, the GraiFs elect ones, say who doth their service plaim ?

On the Grail, in a mystic writing, appeareth each chosen name,

If a man it shall be, or a maiden, whom God calls to this journey blest. ' ^^

And the message no man eflaceth, till all know the high behest.

But when all shall the name have read there, as it came, doth the writing

go:
As children the Grail doth call them, 'neath its shadow they wax and grow.
And blessM shall be the mother whose child doth the summons hear.
Rich and poor alike rejoiceth when the messenger dniweth near, 660

And the Grail son or daughter claipdeth ! • They are gathered from every

land,
And ever from shame and sorrow are they sheltered, that holy band.
In Heaven is their rewarding, if so be that they needs must die.
Then bliss and desire's fulfllment are waiting them all on high ! '

' They who took no part in the conflict, when Lucifer would fight 665

With the Three>in-One, those angels were cast forth from Heaven's height.
To the earth they came at God's bidding, and that ^ivondrous stone did

tend,
Nor was It less pure for their service, yet their task found at last an end.
I know not if God forgave them, or if they yet deeper fell,
This one thing I know of a surety, what God doeth. He doeth well ! 670

But ever since then to this service nor maiden nor knight shall fiul,
For God calleth them all as shall please Him t— and so standeth it with the

Grail!'

272 PARZIVAL

Quoth Parzival, ' So, since knighthood may conquer, with spear and shield.
Both the fame of this life, and the blessing which Paradise shall yield,

^5 Since my soul ever longed for knighthood, and I fought where'er strife
might be.
And my right hand hath neared full often the guerdon of victory.
If God be the God of battles, if He know how a man should fight.
Let Him name me as one of His servants, of the Grail let Him make me

knight 1
They shall own that I fear no danger, nor from strife would I turn aside ! '

6eo But the hermit made answer gently, ' First must thou beware of pride.
For lightly may youth mislead thee ; and the grace of humility
Mayst thou lose, and the proud God doth punish, as full surely is known to me ! '
And tears filled his eyes to overflowing, and his sad thoughts awhile did turn
To a story of old, and our hero he bade from its lesson learn.

685 And he quoth, ' Sir Knight, at Monsalväsch a king reigned in days of yore,
His name all men know as Anfortas, and 1 weep for him evermore.
Yea, and thou too shalt mourn his sorrow, for bitter the woe, I ween,
And the torment of heart and body that his guerdon from pride hath been.
For his youth and his worldly riches they led him an evil road,

690 And he sought for Frau Minne's favour in paths where no peace abode.'

' But the Grail all such ways forfoiddeth, and both knight alike and squire
Who serve the Grail must guard them from the lust of untamed desire.
By meekness their pride must be conquered, if they look for a heavenly prize,
And the brotherhood holdeth hidden the Grail from all stranger eyes :

695 By their warlike skill and prowess the folk from the lands around.

They keep afar, and none knoweth where the Grail and Its Burg are found
Save those whom the Grail shall summon within Monsalväsch' wall —
Yet one^ uncalled, rode thither and evil did then be^,
For foolish he was, and witless, and sin-laden from thence did fare,

700 Since he asked not his host of his sorrow and the woe that he saw him bear.
No man would I blame, yet this man, I ween, for his sins must pay,
Since he asked not the longed-for question which all sorrow had put away.
(Sore laden his host with suffering, earth knoweth no greater pain.)
And before him King Lähelein came there, and rode to the Lake Brimbane.

705 Libb^als, the gallant hero, a joust there was fain to ride,
And Lähelein lifeless left him, on the grass by the water-side,

TREVREZENT 273

(Prienlasconrs, methink$| was his birthplace) and his slayer then led away
- His charger, so men knew the evil thus wrought by his hand that day.'

* And I think me. Sir Knight, thou art Lähelein ? For thou gavest imto my care

A steed that such token showeth as the steeds of the Grail Knights bear ! 7io

For the white dove I see on its housing, from Monsalväsch it surely came ?

Such arms did Anfortas give them while joy yet was his and fame.

Their shields bare of old the token, Titurel gave it to his son

Frimutel, and such shield bare that hero when his death in a joust he won.

For his wife did he love so dearly no woman was loved so well 7^5

By man, yet in truth and honour,^ and the same men of thee shall tell

If thou wakenest anew old customs, and thy wife from thine heart dost love —

Hold thou fast to such fair example lest thy steps from the right path

rove!
And in sooth thou art wondrous like him who once o'er the Grail did reign,
Say, what is thy race ? whence art thou ? and tell me I pray thy name ! ' 7^

Each gazed for a space on the other, and thus quoth Parzival,

' Son am I to a king and hero who through knightly courage fell,

In a joust was he slain — Now I pray thee. Sir Hermit, of this thy grace.

That thou, in thy prayers henceforward, wilt give to his name a place.

Know, Gamuret, did they call him, and he came from fiur Anjou — 795

Sir Host I am not Lähelein ; if ever such sin I knew

Twas in my days of folly, yet in truth have I done the same,

Here I make of my guilt confession, and my sin unto thee I name.

For the prince who once fell a victim unto my sinful hand

Was he whom men called ' the Red Knight,' Prince Ither of Cumberland. 73o

On the greensward I lifeless stretched him, and as at my feet he lay.

Harness, and horse, and weapons, as my booty I bare away! '

Spake the host as his words were ended, (the tale he ill pleased must hear,)
' Ah ! world, wherefore deal thus with us ? since sorrow and grief and fear
Far more than delight dost thou give us I Say, is this thy reward alone ? 735
For ever the song that thou singest doth end in a moumfiil tone 1 '

«And he spake, ' O thou son of my sister, what rede may I give to thee ?

* Since the knight thou hast slain in thy folly, thy flesh and thy blood was he !
If thou, blood-guiltiness bearing, shalt dare before God to stand.
For one blood were ye twain, to God's justice thy life shall repay thhie 740
hand.
VOL. I. S

374 PARZIVAL

Say, for Ither of Gaheviess foUen, what payment dost think to give?
The crown he of knightly honour ! God gave him, while he nright live.
All that decketh man's life ; for all evil his true heart did truly mourn,
True balsam was he of the faithful, to honour and glory bom.

745 And shame fled before his coming, and truth in his heart did dwell.
And for love of his lovely body many women shall hate thee well !
For well did they love his coming, and to serve them he aye was fain,
But their eyes that shone fair for his fairness he ne'er shall rejoice again 1 ^
Now, may God show His mercy to thee whose hand hath such evü wrought,

750 Herzeleide the queen, thy mother, thou too to her death hast brought — *
' Nay I Nay 1 not so, holy father ! What sayest thou ? ' quoth Parzival,
' Of what dost thou here accuse me ? Were I king o'er the wondrous Grail
Not all Its countless riches would repay me if this be sooth.
These words that thy lips have spoken ! And yet if I, in very truth,

755 Be son unto thy sister, then show that thou mean'st me well,

And say, without fear or falsehood, are these things true that thou dost tell ?'

«

Then the hermit he spake in answer, ' Ne'er learnt I to deceive.
Thy mother she died of sorrow in the day thou her side didst leave,

*

Such rewarding her love won for her 1 Thou wast the beast that hung
760 On her breast, the wingM dragon that forth from her body sprung,
That spread its wings and left her : in a dream was it all foretold
Ere yet the sorrowing mother the babe to her breast did hold ! '

'And two other sisters had I, Schoisian^ she vras one ;

She bare a child — Woe is me, her death thro' this birth she won !
765 Duke Kiot of Katelangen was her husband, and since that day

All wordly joy and honour he putteth from him away.

Sigun^, their little daughter, was left to thy mother's care :

And sorrow for Schoisian^ in my heart do I ever bear !

So true was her heart and fsdthfid, an ark 'gainst the flood of sin.
770 A maiden, my other sister, her pure life doth honour win.

For the Grail she ever tendeth— R^panse de Schoie, her name,

Tho' none from Its place may move It whose heart showeth taint of shame,

In her hands is It light as a feather — And brother unto us twain

Is Anfortas, by right of heirship he king o'er the Grail doth reign;
775 And he knoweth not joy, but sorrow, yet one hope I ween is his,

That his pain shall at last be turned to delight and to endless bliss.

TREVREZENT 175

And wondrous tbe tale of his sorrow, as, nephew, I ^1 tell to thee,
And if trne be diine heart and &ithftü his grief shall thy sorrow be I *

* When he died, Frimatel, our father, they chose them his eldest son

As Lord of the Grail and Its knighthood, thus Anfortas his Idngdom won, 7^
And of riches and crown was he worthy, and we wero but children still —
, When he came to the years of manhood, when love joyeth to woik her will
On the heart, and his lips were fnngM with the down of eariy youth,
Frau Minne laid stress upon him who for torment hath little ruth.
But if love the Grail King seeketh other than he find writ, 7^5

'Tis a sin, and in sorrow and sighing full sore shall he pay for it t '

* And my lord and brother chose him a lady for service £ur,
Noble and true he deemed her, I say not what name she bare ;
Well he fought in that lady's honour, and cowardice from him fled.

And his hand many a shield-rim shattered, by love's fire was he venture led. 790
^ So high stood his fiune that no hero in knightly lands a&r

Could he brook to be thought his equal, so mighty his deeds of war.
And his battle-cry was *' Amor," yet it seemeth unto me
Not all too well such cry suiteth with a life of humility.'

' One day as the king rode lonely, in search of some venture high 795

(Soro trouble it brought upon us,) with love's payment for victory,
For love's burden lay heavy on him, in a joust was he wounded soro
With a poisoned spear, so that healing may be wrought on him nevermore.
For thine und^ the King Anfortas, he was smitten thro' the thigh
By a heathen who with him battled, for he jousted right skilfully. 800

^ He came from the land of Ethnis^ whero forth from &ir Paradise
I Flow the streams of the River Tigris, and he thought him, that heathen wise.
He should win the Grail, and should hold It — On his spear had he graven

his name,
From afar sought he deeds of knighthood, over sea and land he came.
The fame of the Grail drew him thither, and evil for us his strife, ^5

His hand joy hath driven from us and clouded with grief our life ! '

y. * But thine uncle had battled bravely and men praised his name that day—
With the spear-shafr yet fast in his body he wended his homeward way.

276 PARZIVAL

And weeping arose and wailing as he came once again to his own,
810 And dead on the field lay his foeman, nor did we for his death make moan !

' When the king came, all pale and bloodless, and feeble of strength and limb^
Then a leech stretched his hand to the spear-wound, and the iron he found

&st within,
With the hilt, wrought of reed, and hollow, and the twain from the wound

he drew.
Then I fell on my knees, and I vowed me to God, with a heart so true,
815 That henceforward the pride of knighthood, and its fame, would I know no

more,
If but God would behold my brother and would succour his need so sore.
Then flesh, wine, and bread I forswore there, and all food that by blood

might live,
That lust might no longer move me my life I to God would give,
And I tell thee, O son of my sister, that the wailing arose anew
890 When my weapons I put from off me and ungirded my sword so true,

And they spake, ' Who shall guard our mysteries ? who shall watch o'er the

wondrous Grail?'
And tears fell from the eyes of the maidens, but their weeping might naught

avail !

'To the Grai), then, they bare Anfortas, if Its virtue might bring relief;
But, alas*! when his eyes beheld It yet heavier waxed his grief

895 As the life sprang afresh within him, and he knew that he might not die ;
And he liveth, while here I hide me in this life of humility.
And the power of the Grail, and Its glory, with their monarch have waxen

weak.
For the venom, his wound that poisoned, tho' the leeches their books did seek
Yet found they nor help nor healing— Yea, all that their skill might learn

830 'Gainst the poison of Aspis, Elkontius, of Liseis, and Ecidemon,
All spells 'gainst the worm empoisoned, 'gainst Jecis or Mektris ;
Or all that a wise man knoweth of roots or of herbs ; I wis
Naught was there in all might help him ; nor rede I a longer tale
Since t7(?^willeth not his healing what man's skill may aught avail?'

835 ' Then we sent to the mystic waters, in a far-off land they rise,
Pison, Gihon, Tigris, Euphrates, the rivers of Paradise,

TREVREZENT 277

And so near they flow that the perfumes which breathe from its scented air
Shall yet to Uieir streams be wafted— If their waters perchance might bear
Some plant from the wondrous garden \hat might succour us in our woe,
But vain thought, and fruitless labour, fresh sorrow our heart did know ! ' 840

* Nor here did we end our labour, for again for the bough we sought
Which the Sibyl unto iEneas as a shield 'gainst Hell's dangers brought.
'Gainst the smoke and the fire of Phlegethon, and the rivers that flow in Hell
Would it guard, and for long we sought it, for we thought, if such chance

befell
That the spear in Hell-fire was welded, and the poison from Hell did spring 845
That thus of our joy had robbed us, then this bough might salvation bring 1 '

'* But Hell, it knew naught of the poison 1 There liveth a wondrous bird
Who loveth too well her fledglings — Of the Pelican's love we heard,
How she teareth her breast and feedeth her young with the quickening food
Of her own life-blood, and then dieth — So we took of that bird the blood, 850
Since we thought that her love might help us, and we laid it upon the sore
As best we could— Yet, I wot well, no virtue for us it bore ! '

' A strange beast, the Unicom, liveth, and it doth in such honour keep

The heart of a spotless maiden that it oft at her knee win sleep.

And the heart of that beast we took us, and we took us the red-fire stone 855

That lies 'neath its horn, if the king's wound might its healing virtue own.

And we laid on the wound the carbuncle, and we put it the wound within,

Yet still was the sore empoisoned nor aid from the stone might win 1'

•

* And sore with the king we sorrowed — ^Then a magic herb we found,

(Men say, from the blood of a dragon it springeth from out the ground,) 860
With the stars, and the wind, and the heaven, dose-bound, doth it win its

power.
Lest perchance, by the flight of the dragon, when the stars bring the circling

hour.
And the moon draweth near to her changing, (for sorer then grows the pain,)
The herb might our grief have aided— Yet its magic we sought in vain I '

*Then the knights of the Grail knelt lowly, and for help to the Grail they 865

prayed.
And, behold ! the n^ystic writing, and a promise it brought of aid»

378 PARZIVAL

For a knight should come to the castle, and so soon as he asked the king
Of the woe that so sorely pained him his question should healing bring.]
But let them beware, man or nudden, or child, should they warn the knight

970 Of his task, he no healing bringeth, greater waxeth the sorrow's might.
And the writing it ran, 'Ye shall mark this, forewarning shall bring but iU,
And in Uie first night of his coming must the healer his task fulfil,
Or the question shall lose its virtue ; but if at the chosen hour
He shall speak, kis shall be the Idngdom, and the evil hath lost its power.

^5 So the hand of the Highest sendeth to Anfortas the end of woe.
Yet King shall he be no longer tho* heaUng and bliss he know.'

'Thus we read in the Grail that our sorrow should come to an end that day
That the knight should come who the meaning of the grief that he saw

should pray —
Then salve of Nard we took us, and Teriak, and the wound we dressed,

0^ And we burnt wood of Lignum Aloe for so might the king find rest
Yet ever he sufiereth sorely— Then fled I unto this place,
And my life litUe gladness knoweth till my brother hath gotten grace.
And the knight, he hath come, and hath left us, and ill for us all that day,
(But now did I speak of his coming,) sorrow-laden he rode away,

885 For he saw his host's woe and adced not, 'What suleth thee here, mine
host?'
Since his foUy such words forbade him great bliss shall he there have lost ! '

Then awhile did they mourn together till the mid-day hour drew near,
And the host spake, 'We must be seeking for food, and thine horse, I fear,
As yet shall be lacking fodder ; nor know I how we shall feed

890 If not God in His goodness show us the herbs that shall serve our need,
My kitchen but seldom smoketh 1 Forgive thou the lack to-day,
And abide here, so long as shall please thee^ if thy journey shall brook delay.
Of plants and of herbs would I teach thee much lore, if so be the grass
Were not hidden by snow — God grant us that this cold may be soon
o'erpast —

895 Now break we yew-boughs for thy charger, far better its fare hath been
Erewhile 'neath the roof of Monsalväsch than shall here be its lot I ween 1
Yet never a host shall ye meet with who rider alike and steed
Would as gladly bid share of his substance as I, had I all ye need ! '

TREVREZENT a79

Then the twain they went forth on their errand-— Parzival for his steed had

caxe,
While the hermit for roots was seeking since no better might be their fare ; 900
And the host his rule forgat not, he ate naught, whate'er he found,
Till the ninth hour^ but ever hung them, as he drew them from out the

ground,
On the nearest shrub, and there left them ; many days he but ill might £ure
For God's honour, since oft he lost them, the shrubs which his roots did bear.

Nor grudged they aught of their labour : then they knelt by the streamlet's 905

flow.
And the roots and the herbs they washed there, and no laughter their lips

might know.
Then their hands they washed, and the yew-boughs Parzival together bound
And baie them unto his charger ere the cavern again he found ;
Then the twain by the fireside sat them, nor ftirther might food be brought,
Nor on roast nor on boiled they fed them, nor found in their kitchen 910

aught
Yet so true was the love and the honour Parzival to the hermit bare
That he deemed he enough had eaten, and no better had been his üat
With Gumemanz of Graharz, or e'en in Monsalväsch hall.
When the maidens passed fair before him and the Grail fed them each and

all

Then his kindly host quoth, * Nephew, despise not this food, for know 9x5

Lightly thou shalt not find one who shall favour and kindfaess show,

Of true heart, without fear of evil, as ÜEtin would I show to thee.'

And Parzival quoth, ' May God's &vour henceforward ne'er light on me

If food ever better pleased me, or I ate with a better will

What a host ever set before me, such fare doth content me still.' 990

Their hands they need not wash them for such food as before them lay,

Twas no fish, that their eyes had harmed as men oft are wont to say.

And were I or hawk or falcon I had lent me to the chase,

Nor stooped to the lure unwilling, nor fled from my master's face.

But an they no better fed me than at noontide they fed, these twain» 915

I had spread my wings right swiftly, nor come to their call again !

38o PARZIVAL

Why mock at this folk so fiuthfiil? Twas ever my way of old-
Yet ye know why, forsaking riches, they chose to them want and coki.
And the lack of all things joyful, such sorrow and grief of heart
They t>are of true heart. God-fearing, nor had they in fidsehood part ;
930 And thus from the hand of the Hij^est they won payment for grief and
woe,
And alike should the twain God's fevour, as of <rfd, so hereafter know.

Then up stood they again, and they gat them, Parrival and the holy man.
To the steed in its rocky stable, and full sadly the host began
935 As he spake to the noble charger, ' Woe is me for thy scanty fare,
For the sake of the saddle upon thee and the token I see thee bear ! '

When their care for the horse was ended, then sorrow sprang forth anew.

Quoth Parrival, ' Host and uncle, my folly I needs must rue,

And hm would I tell the story if for shame I the word may speak ;

940 Forgive me, I pray, of thy kindness, since in thee do I comfort seek,
For sorely, I ween, have I sinnM ; if thou canst no comfort find
No peace may be mine, but for ever the chains of remorse shall bind.
Of true heart shalt thou mourn my folly — He who to Monsalväsch rode,
He who saw Anfortas* sorrow, he who spake not the healing word,

945 Twas I, child and heir of misfortune, 'twas I, Parrival, alone,
lU have I wrought, and I know not how I may for such ill atone I '

Spake the hermit, * Alas I my nephew, thou speakest the words of woe,
Vanished our joy, and sorrow henceforth must we grasp and know.
Since folly of bliss betrayed thee : senses five did God give to thee,
950 And methinks, in the hour of thy testing, their counsel should better be.
Why guarded they not thine honour, and thy love as a man to men.
In the hour that thou satst by Anfortas ? Of a truth hadst thou spoken
then!'

' Nor would I deny thee counsel ; mourn not for thy fault too sore.
Thou shalt, in a fitting measure, bewail thee, and grief give o'er.
955 For strange are the ways, and fitfiil, of mankind, oft is youth too wise
And old age tumeth back to folly, and darkened are wisdom's eyes.
And the fruit of a life lieth forfeit, while green youth doth wax old and

fade —
Not in this wise true worth shall be rooted, and payment in praise be paid.

TREVREZENT 281

Thine youth would I see fresh blooming, and thine heart waxing strong

and bold,
While thou winnest anew thine honour, nor dost homage from God with- 960

hold.
For thus might it chance unto thee to win for thyself such fame
As shall make amends for thy sorrow, and God thee, as His knight, shall

claim I '

*Thro' my mouth would God teach thee wisdom ; now say, didst thou see the

spear,
In that wondrous Burg of Monsalväsch ? As ever the time draws near
When Saturn his journey endeth — (that time by the wound we know, 965

And yet by another token, by the fall of the sununer snow)
Then sorely the frost doth pain him, thy king and uncle dear.
And deep in the wound empoisoned once more do they plunge the spear,
One woe shall help the other, the spear cure the frost's sharp pain.
And crimson it grows with his life-blood ere men draw it forth again ! ' 970

' When the stars return in their orbit, then the wailing it waxeth sore, '

When they stand in opposition, or each to the other draw.

And the moon, in its waxing and waning, it causeth him bitter pain —

In the time that I erst have told thee then the king little rest may gain ;

His flesh thro* the frost it groweth colder than e'en the snow, 975

But men know that the spear sharp-pointed doth with fiery venom glow.

And upon the wound they lay it, and the frost from his flesh so cold

It draweth, and lo ! as crystals of glass to the spear doth hold,

And as ice to the iron it clingeth, and none looseth it from the blade.

Then Trebuchet the smith bethought him, in his wisdom two knives he 980

made.
Of silver fair he wrought them, and sharp was the edge and keen —
(A spell on the king's sword written had taught him such skill I ween,)
Tho* no flame on earth can kindle Asbestos, as men do tell.
And never a fire may harm it, if these crystals upon it fell
Then the flame would leap and kindle and bum with a fiery glow 985

Till th' Asbestos lay in ashes, such power doth this poison know ! '

'The king, he rideth never, nor yet may he walk, or lie.

And he sitteth not, but, reclining, in tears his sad days pass by.

aSa PARZIVAL

And the moon's changes work him evil— To a lake they call Brimbane
990 They bear him full oft for fishing that the breezes may soothe his pain.
This he calleth his day for hmiting, tb& what booty shall be his share^
And he vex himself to gain it, for his host 'twould be meagre hxe !
And firom this there sprang the story that he shoidd but a Fisher be,
Tho little he recked the fiiUe, no merchant I ween was he
995 Of salmon or aye of lamprey, he had chosen far other game

Were he freed from the load of sorrow and the burden of bitter pain.'

Quoth Pandval, * So I found him ; the king's skiff at anchor lay.
And for pastime, e'en as a fisher, the even he wore away ;
And many a mile had I ridden that day, since from Pehrapar
1000 When the sun stood high in the heaven, at noontide I forth must £Eu:e ;
''And at even I much bethought me where my shelter that night might be,
Then my uncle did fiiir entreat me, and my host for a spsice was he.'

* A perilous way didst thou ride there,' spake the host, * one that well they

guard
Those Templars, nor strength nor cunning brings a traveller thro' their ward,
X005 For danger full oft besets him, and oft he his life shall lose.

Life against life is their penance, all quarter these knights refuse.'

'Yet scathdess I passed that woodland in the day that I found the king
By the lake,' quoth the knight, ' and at even his palace with grief did ring,
And sure, as they mourned, I think me, no folk ever mourned before 1
loio In the hall rose the voice of wailing as a squire sprang within the door,
And a spear in his hand he carried, and to each of the walls he stept,
Red with blood was the spear, as they saw it, the people they mourned and
wept.'

Then answered the host, * Far sorer than before was the monarch's pain,
In this wise did he learn the tidings that Saturn drew near again,

1015 And the star with a sharp frost cometh, and it helpeth no whit to lay
The spear on the sore as aforetime, tn the wound must it i^unge alway I
When that star standeth high in heaven the wound shall its coming know
Afore, tho' the earth shall heed not, nor token of frost shall show.
But the cold it came, and the snow-flakes fell thick in the following night

1090 Tho' the season was spring, and the winter was vanquished by summer's
might

TREVREZENT 383

As the frost to the king brought sorrow and pain, so his people true
Were of joy bereft, as the moment of his anguish thus nearer drew.'

And Trevrezent quoth, ' In sorrow that folk hath both lot and part,

When the spear thro' the king's wound pierceth, it pierceth each faithfol heart

And their love to their lord, and their sorrow, such tears from their eyelids 1035

drew
That, methinks, in those bitter waters had they been baptized anew.'

Spake Parnva^ unto the hermit, ' Five-and-twenty they were, the maids
I saw stand before the monarch, and courteous their part they played.'
And the host spake, * By God's high counsel such maidens alone avail
For the care of this wondrous mystery, and do service before the GraiL 1Q30

And the Grail, It chooseth stricfty, and Its knights must be chaste and pure, —
When the star standeth high in the heaven then grief must that folk endure.
And the young they mourn as the aged, and God's wrath it lasts for aye.
And ne'er to their supplication doth He hearken and answer ** Yea." '

' And, nephew, this thing would I tell thee, and my word shalt thou well 1935

beliieve.
They who to the Grail do service, they take, and again they give.
For they take to them Uttle children, noble of birth and race —
If a land be without a ruler, and its people shall sedc God's Face
And crave of His Hand a monarch, then He l^eaxkeneth to their prayer.
And a knight, from the Grail host chosen, as kii^ to that land doth fare. 1040
And well shall he rule that people, and happy shall be that land.
For the blessing of God goeth with him and God's wisdom doth guide his

hand.'

' God sendeth the m^m in secret, but the nuudins in light of day
Are given unto their husbands ; thus none spake to his wooing. Nay,
When King Kastis wooed Hendeide, but joyful our sister gave, ^045

Yet ne'er might her love rejoice him for Death dug at his feet a grave
But in life had he given thy mother both Norgals and fair Waleis,
Those kingdoms twain and their cities, Kingrivals and Kanvoleis.
'Twas a fair gift, and known of all men— Then they rode on their home-
ward way.
But Death met them upon their journey, and he made of the king his prey, 1050

384 PARZIVAL

And over both Waleis and Norgals Heneleide, as queen, did reign,

Till Gamuref s right hand valiant won the maid, and her kingdoms twain.'

'Thos the Grail Its maidens giveth, in the day, and the sight of men.
But It sendeth Its knights in the silence and their children It claims again, —
I9SS To the host of the Grail are th^ counted, Grail servants they all shall be.
So the will of God standeth written on the Grail for all men to see.'

* He who would to the Grail do service, he shall women's love forswear :

A wife shall none have save the Grail king, and his wife a pure heart must bear,
And those others whom God's Hand sendeth, as king, to a kingless land —

xo6o But little I recked such counsel, to love's service I vowed my hand.

As the pride of my youth constrained me, and the beauty of woman's eyes,
And I rode full oft in her service, and I battled for knighthood's prize.
Fain was I for wild adventure, on jousting no more I thought.
So fair shone the love-light on me ever fiercer the strife I sought

1065 And thro' for-off lands and distant, in the service of love I fared.
And to win sweet love's rewarding right valiant the deeds I dared.
If heathen my foe or Christian, what mattered it unto me ?
The fiercer the strife that beset me, the fairer my prize should be ! '

* And thus, for the love of woman, in three parts of the earth I fought,
1070 In Europe, and far-off Asia, and in Afric I honour sought

If for gallant jousting I lusted I fought before Gaurivon ;
By the mystic Mount of Fay-Morgan I many a joust have run.
And I fought by the Mount Agremontin, where are fiery men and fierce,
Yet the other side they bum not tho' their spears thro' the shield can pierce.
1075 In Rohas I sought for ventures, and Slavs were my foemen then.

With lances they came against me and I trow they were gallant men I '

* From Seville I took my journey, and I sailed o'er the ddeless sea
Unto Sicily, since thro' Friant and Aquilea should my journey be.
Alas I alas ! woe is me, for I met with thy Either there,

1080 I found him, and looked upon him, ere I fix>m Seville must fare.
For e'en as I came to the city he there for a space abode.
And my heart shall be sore for his journey, since thence to Bagdad he rode,
And there, as thyself hast spoken, in a knightly joust he fell.
And for ever my heart must mourn him, and my tongue of his praises tell I '

TREVREZENT 285

* A rich man shall be my brother, nor silver nor gold would spare 1085
When in secret I forth from Monsalväsch at his will and his word did fare;
For I took me his royal signet, and to Karkobra I came,

Where Plimizöl to the wide sea floweth, and the land, Barbigöl, they name.
And the Burg-grave he knew the token, ere I rode from the town again
Of horses and squires, as failed me, he raised me a gallant train, ,_,

And we rode thence to wild adventures, and to many a knightly deed,
For nothing had he begmdged me of aught that might serve my need.
Alone came I unto the city, and there at my journey's end
Did I leave those who had fared thence with me, and alone to Monsalväsch
wend.'

* Now hearken to me, my nephew, when thy father first saw my face X095
Of old in Seville's fair city, there did he such likeness trace

To his wife, fair Herzeleide, that he would me as brother claim,

Tho' never before had he seen me, and secret I held my name.

And in sooth was I fair to look on, as ever a man might be.

And my face by no beard was hidden ; and sweetly he spake to me, noo

When he sought me within my dwelling— Yet many an oath I swore

And many a word of denial, yet ever be pressed me more *

Till in secret at last I told him, his kinsman was I in truth,

And greatly did he rejoice him when he knew that his words were sooth I '

•

* A jewel he gave unto me, and I gave to him at his will ; xx<^
Thou sawestf my shrine, green shall grass be, yet that shineth greener still,
'Twas wrought from the stone he gave me-^and a better gift he gave,

For his nephew as squire he left me. Prince Ither, the true and brave.

His heart such lore had taught him that falsehood his face did flee,

The King of Cumberland was he, who, thou sayest, was slain by thee. mo

Then no longer might we delay us, but we parted, alas ! for aye.

He rode to the land of Baruch, unto Rohas I took my way.

* In Celli three weeks I battled, and I deemed 'twas enough for fiune.
From Rohas I took my journey and unto Gandein I came,

(' Twas that town from which first thy grandsire, his name of Gandein did take,) 1x15

And many a deed did Ither, and men of his prowess spake.

And the town lieth near the river, where Graien and Drave they meet.

And the waters I ween are golden,— there Ither found guerdon sweet,

216 PARZIVAL

For thine aunt, Lamire, she loved him, she was queen ofthat fieur land»
II90 Gandein of Anjou, her anther, he gave it unto her hand.

And Lamire was her name, hut her country shall be Styria to thb day —
And many a land must he traverse who seeketh for knightly fray.'

' It grieveth me sore for my red squire, men honoured me for his sake,
And Ither was thy near kinsman tho* of that thou small heed didst take I

1x35 Yet God He hath not forgotten, and thy deed shall He count for sin.
And I wot thou shalt first do penance ere thou to His peace shalt win.
And, weeping, this truth I tell thee, two mortal sins shall lie
On thine heart, thou hast slain thy kinsman, and thy mother, thro* thee, must

die.
And In sooth shalt thou sore bewail her ; in the day thou didst leave her side,

1x30 So great was her love, and fiuthful, that for grief at thy loss she died.
Now do thou as here I rede thee, repent thee and pay sin's cost.
That thy conflict on earth well ended thy soul be not ever lost.'

Then the host he quoth fiill kindly, ^ Nephew, now say the word,
Whence hast thou yon gallant chaiger ? Not yet I the tale have heard ! '
1x35 ' In a joust. Sir Host, did I win it, when I rode from Sigun^s cell
In a gallop I smote the rider and he from the saddle fell.
And the steed was mine, I rode hence,— from Monsalväsch he came, the

knight'
Quoth the host, ' Is the man yet living who thus with thee did fight ?
' Yea, I saw him fly before me, and beside me stood his steed.'
Z140 ' Nay, if thou in such wise dost bear thee thou art scant of wit indeed 1

The Grail-knights dost thou rob, and thinkest their friendship thereby

to win?'
' Nay, my uncle, in strife I won it, and he who shall count it sin
Let him ask how the thing hath chanced thus, 'twas a fair fight we fought, we

twain.
Nor was it for naught that I took it, for first had my steed been slain 1 '

XX45 Quoth Parzival, 'Who was the maiden who the Grail in her hands did
bear.
Her mantle, that eve, she lent me ?'— Quoth the hermit, 'That lady fair
Is thine aunt, if her robe she lent thee of the loan shalt thou not be vain,
For surely she deemed that hereafter thou shouldst there as monarch reign.

TREVREZENT 287

And the Grail, and herself, yea and I too, should honour thee as our lord : *
And a gift didst thou take from thine uncle, for he gave thee, I ween, a »50

sword,
And sin hast thou won in the wearing, since thy lips, which to speak are

fain,
There spake not the mystic question which had loosened his sorrow's chain,
And that sin shalt thou count to the other, for 'tis time that we lay us

down.
Nor couches nor cushions had they, but they laid them upon the ground,
And for bedding the rushes served them— too humble^ I ween, such bed 1155
For men of a race so noble, yet they deemed they were not ill-sped.

Then twice seven days he abode there, with the hermit his lot did share.
And the herb of the ground was his portion—yet he sought not for better

fare,
Right s^dly he bare such hardness that should bring to him food so sweet,
For as priest did his host absolve him, and as knight gave him counsel 1160

meetl

Quoth Parrival to the hermit, ' Say who shall he be, who lay
Before the Grail ? grey was he, yet his face it was as the day ! '
Spake the host, ' Titurel thou sawest, and he shall grandsire be

«

To thy mother, first king and ruler of the Grail and Its knights was he.
But a sickness hath fiülen on him, and he lieth, nor findeth cure, 2 j^.

Yet his fece on the Grail yet looketh, by Its power shall his life endure I
Nor his countenance changeth colour, and his counsel shall aye be wise-
In his youth he xode hx and jousted, and won to him valour's prize.'

* An thou wouldst that thy life be adornM with true worth as thy crown of

£une.
Then ne'er mayst thou hate a woman, but shall honour, as knight, her 1170

name,
For women and priests, thou knowest, unarmM shall be their hand.
Yet the blessmg of God watcheth o^er them, and as shield round the priest

doth stand ;
For the priest, he careth for thee, that thine end may be fiee from iU,
So treat thou no priest as a foeman, but serve him with right good will.
For naught on the earth thou seest that is like to his office high, 1x75

For he speaketh that word unto.us which our peace and our life did buy ;

388 PARZIVAL

And bis hand hath been blest for the holding of the pledge on the altar laid.
To assure us of sin's forgiveness, and the price for our pardon paid.
And a priest who from sin doth guard him, and who to his Lord shall give
xi8o Pure heart and pttle hand for His service, say, what man shall holier live ?'

New this day was thetr day of parting— Trevrezent to;i$tti; hero spake,
' Leave thou here thy sins behind thee, God shall me for thy surety take,
And do thou as I have shown thee, be steadfast and true of heart ! '
Think ye with what grief and sorrow the twain did asunder part.

APPENDICES

VOL. I.

APPENDIX A

THE ANGEVIN ALLUSIONS OF THE *PARZIVAL'

Onb of the most striking peculiarities of thb version of the Perceval legend consists
in the fact that the writer closely connects his hero with a contemporary princely
house, and exercises considerable ingenuity in constructing a genealogy which shall
establish a relationship alike with the legendary British race of Pendragon, and with
the hereditary House of Anjou. Now, that Parzival should be represented as con-
nected with Arthur is not surprising, taking into consideration the great popularity of
the Arthurian legends ; the English ' Sir Percyvelle ' makes the relationship even
closer; there, Percyvelle is Arthur's nephew, his sister's son ; but it is far more difficult .
to account for the Angevin connection. It has been suggested that the writer of|
Wolfram's French source was Walter Mapes, to whom another of the Grail romances -9
the QuesU is generally ascribed ; and who, as is well known, was closely attached
to the Court of Henry Fitz-Empress, Count of Anjou, and King <^f England. Setting
on one side the great difference, in s^le and treatment, between the Parzivai and
the Questef which render it impossible to believe that the same man could have
treated the same legend from two such practically opposite points of view, a close
examination oi the Angevin allusions found in the Parzival reveals a correspondence
between the characters and incidents of the poem, and the facts, real and tndttional,
of Angevin history, which seems io point to a familiarity with the subject scarcely
likely to be possessed by a foreigner.

The following parallels will show that this Angevin element, though strongest in the
first iwo books (those peculiar to Wolfram's version), is to be clearly traced even in
the presentment of what we know to be traditional features of (he story.

THE ORIGIN OF THE HOUSE OF ANJOU

Wolfram Angevin Tradition

In Book I. the origin of the Angevin Ascribes their origin to the marriage of

family is traced to the marriage of Mazadan one of the early Counts with a lady of

with the fiiiry Terre-de-la-schoie. The surpassing beauty, whose demon origin

fairy origin of the race is referred to again was discovered hf her inability to remain

in Books II. and viii., the later allusion in church during Mass. It was to the

292

PARZIVAL

Gamurbt

Younger son of the King of Anjou;
brought up at the court of French queen ;
goes to the East where he marries a
Moorish queen, and becomes king of an
Eastern kingdom.

being in connection with Veigulacht» son influence of this ancestress that the un-
of Gamuret's sister, and cousin to hero. controllable temper of the Angevin princes

was ascribed. Richard Coeur-de-lion is
reported to have frequently said, 'We
came from the Devil, and we go back to
the Devil.' (In each instance it will be
noted that the supernatural element is
introduced by the wife.)

FuLK V. OF Anjou
Son of Fulk IV. (Ji€chin), and Bertalda
de Montfort. His mother eloped with,
and married, Philip, king of France. She
remained on good terms with her former
husband, and, Fulk, having already an
heir by a previous wife, was allowed to
bring up her son at her own court. The
elder brother dying, Fulk became his
father's heir, and finally succeeded him.
In 1 1 29, after the marriage of his son,
Geoffrey, with the Empress Maud, Fulk
was invited by Baldwin, king of Jerusalem,
to become his son-in-law and successor.
Accordingly he resigned Anjou toGeofifrey,
went to Jerusalem, where he married
Melesinda, daughter and heiress to
Baldwin, and, after the death of the
latter, succeeded him as king, and reigned
till his death in 1142. (Here again we
note that, in each instance, the Eastern
kingdom is won through the wife.)

A similar incident is recorded of
Geoffrey i. {Grisegonelle) who, during
the siege of Paris by the Danes in 978,
overthrew a gigantic Northman named
Ethelwulf, who daily challenged the
besieged in the manner recounted in
the poem. Later historians cast doubts
on the truth of this story, but it appears
in all the old chronicles, and was un-
doubtedly firmly believed in by the
writers of the twelfth century.

Hbrzelkide The Empress Maude

Widow, queen of two kingdoms, and Widow, Empress» Lady of two Lands,

marries Prince of Anjou. England and Normandy, marries Count

Her son is subsequently deprived of of Anjou.

Gamuret's first recorded deed of valour
is the conquest, in single combat, of
Heut^er, the Scotchman, who appears
eveiy morning before the gates of Patela-
munt, to challenge the besieged knights.

APPENDIX A 293

these kingdoms by the action of one Her son is deprived of these two king-
knight^ Book iii. p. 73, two brothers, doxns by the action of two brothers
Ibid. p. 8a This loss of two kingdoms Theobald and Stephen of Blois. Though
by the action of LÄhelein is inasted on Stephen was tlie principal aggressor, it
throughout the poem, and the reader must not be forgotten that Theobald, the
should note the manner in which Lähelein, elder brother, was invited by the Normans
though only appearing in the Second Book, to become their Duke on the death of
is constantly referred to ; which seems to Henry i. ; but on arriving in Normandy,
indicate that the writer attached a special and finding that Stephen had already
importance to this character, cf. Book iii. seized the crown of England, Theobald
pp. 86 and 87 ; v. pp. 150, 154 ; vi. pp. resigned his claim to the Duchy and threw
171, 188; VII. p. 196; IX. p. 272. (It in his lot with that of Stephen. An
may be noted that in no other version of English writer (such as Mapes) would
the legend is a previous marriage of the probably have overlooked the part played
hero's mother recorded. ) by Theobald. An Angevin, knowing the

Counts of Blois to be the hereditary foes
of the House of Anjou, would hardly
fail to record the &ct that both brothers
were concerned in the usurpation of the
rights of Henry Fitz- Empress.

The Red Knight The Red Knight

The Red Knight as represented in the This character is of course traditional,
poem, mounted before the gates of Nantes, but the special presentment of it in the
in red armour, with red hair. Parzival seems to be owing to Angevin

influence. In 1048 William of Nor>
mandy, being at war with. Geoffrey 11. of
Anjou and besieging Domfront, sent him
the following curious challenge : ' If the
Count of Anjou attempts to bring victuals
into Domfront he will find me awaiting
him without the gates armed and mounted,
bearing a red shield, and having a pennon
on my spear wherewith to wipe his fiice.'
Rtd hair was a distinguishing char-
acteristic of the Angevin Counts. Fulk i.
derived his name of Rufns from this
peculiarity, which was inherited by many
of his descendants, among them Fulk v.,
his son Geoffrey Plantagenet, and his
grandson Henry Fitz - Empress. The
writer of the Par%ival strongly insists on
Ither's red hair.

Nantes Nantes

Nantes, throughout the poem, is always The possession of the city of Nantes
treated as Arthur's chief city. Karidöl is was a constant source of quarrel between

394 PARZIVAL

tctreely icfemd to, the Round Table is dwCoants of Anjoa and their tteighbomt
kept at Nantes, and fai Book x. we aie of Brittany. Time after time the fomer
toU that Arthur's pahioe was there. This claimed the orer-lordship of Nantes,
is not tiw case in other versions of the which stood just beyond their frontier, and
story. more than once they succeeded in making

themselves masters of die coveted territory.
To represent Nantes as Arthur's chief
city, and Ither as clsiming it, waold be
an alteration of the legend most natural
in an Angevin writer.

Book ix. relates that Kiot sought for Britain, France, and Ireland were all
records of the Grail race in the chronides brought into close connection under Henry
of Britain, France, and Ireland, and found Fits-Empress, Count of Anjon, Duke of
the history at last in the chronicle of Normandy, and King of England, the
Anjon. husband of Eleanor of Provence and

Aquitaine, who conquered Inland in
1 1 72.

The peculiar presentment of the Knights of the Grail as TempUrs (TempleiseD),
having their residence in a castle surrounded by a forest, recalls the fsct that a close
connection between the Order of Templars and the House of Anjou had existed for
some time previous to the date of this poem, a tax for the benefit of the Order
having been imposed on all his dominions by Fulk v. on his return from his first
pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 11 30. A community of Knights Templars was founded
by Henry Fitz-Empress fifty years later at Vaubourg, in the forest of Roumare whidi
became very fiunous. (The location of Monsalväsch in the Pyrenees hardly seems to
accord with the indications of the poem, which make it only thirty-six hours' ride
from Nantes.)

Finally, the name of the poet claimed by Wolfram as his authority, KiotsGuiot=
Cvuy, is distinctly Angevin, the hereditary Angevin princely names being Fulk,
Geoflfirey, and Guy.

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APPENDIX B

THE PROPER NAMES IN * PARZIVAL *

One of the marked pecnliarities of Wolfram's poem is the number of proper names
with which it abounds, there being scarcely a character, however insignificant the role
assigned, that is left unnamed. In the other versions of the Perceval legend this is
not the case, consequently there are ä vast number of names occurring in the Parzival
to which no parallel can be found elsewhere, and which are no unimportant factor in
determining the problem of the source from which Wolfram drew his poem. It
would be impossible in a short Appendix to discuss the question in all its bearings, but
the following classification, based on Herr Bartsch's article on Die Etgrn-namen in
Wolfram's Parzival^ will give some idea of the wide ground they cover : —

I. Names belonging to the original legend, and met with, with but little variation,
in all versions. To this class belong the names of Pendragon, Arthur, Guinivere,
Perceval, Gawain, Kay, Segramor ; and the names of such places as KaridölssCardnel
= Carlisle, Cumberland, Waleis, Norgals, Dianasdron.

II. Names derived from a French version of the story, which may be divided into
two classes :

(a) Names of which we find an equivalent in existing French sources, notably
Chretien, whose poem offers so close a parallel to the Parzival ; examples of
this class are Gumemanzs: French, GomtmatU ; Vt\i9.^=^Beau-r€paire ;
Klamide= C/idimu^x; Kingron=A^uigrfntfn; Trebuchet; Meljanz de Lys;
Lippaut=:7f>3aM/; Cn.mofia.m^ Guiromeians ox Guir$melanz.

{b) Names formed by a misunderstanding of a French original : such are Soltane,
from forest soutaine ^^iidjy ; Orilus de Lalande, from Li orgueilhus de la
lande ; and similarly, Orgelase of Logrois, from La erguelUuse de Logres ;
Gringuljet, the name of Gawain's horse, from Ligringalety which is explained
as meaning cheval maigre et alerte, Ligweiz-prelljus, is Li guez perellous^ the
Ford Perilous ; and a notable instance of this class is the curious name
Schionatulander, which is either ' Li joenet de la lande^ ' The youth of the
meadow,' or ' Li joenet ä Valant^ ' The youth with the dog,' in allusion to the
cause of the knight's death. Whence Wolfram took this name is unknown.

III. Names borrowed or quoted from other romances of the time, of those to
which Wolfram alludes most frequently we know the Erec and Iwein of Hartmann
von Aue; Eilhart's Tristan; Heinrich von Veldeck's yEneid\ Chretien de Troye's
Cligisy and Le Chevallier de la Charrette ; and the Nibelungenlied and Dietrich Sage,
He also refers to other romances which have not come down to us, such are the

APPENDIX B 297

allusions to adventures connected with Gawain in Book vi. ; and to the death of
Ilinot, son of King Arthur, of whom we know nothing. (The names derived from
these romances are all noted, and their source given as they occur in the text.) Book
I. contains some distinctly German names, such as Eisenhart, Hemant, and Herlinde,
Friedebrand of Scotland and Heuteger, the source of these is doubtful, some occur in
the Gudrun cycle, but it seems probable that in both instances they were derived from
a common source, and, belonging as they do to a North Sea cycle, they may have
reached the poem either through a French or a German medium.

IV. Names of places and people connected with Wolfram himself, such as
Abenberg, Wildberg, Erfurt, the Count of Wertheim, Herman of Thuringia, etc.
These were, of course, introduced by Woliiram, and could not have existed in his
French source.

V. Classical and mytholc^cal names such as Antikonie= Antigone, Ekuba,
Secundilla, Plato and the Sibyls, Pythagoras, etc., Jupiter, Juno, Venus, Amor, Cupid,
Lucifer, Astaroth, and other of the fallen angels.

VI. Oriental names. In Book iv. we have the Arabic names of the seven planets,

a curious coincidence, in view of the alleged Arabic source of the Grail-myth as given

in Books viii. and IX. Names of cities such as Alexandria, Bagdad, Askalon. This

latter is of course equivalent to Escavalon in the French versions, and the real name is

doubtless Avalon, but it is by no means improbable that the change was made not by

a misunderstanding, but by one who knew the Eastern city, and it falls in with the

various other indications of crusading influence to be traced throughout the poem.

We may add to these the names of Oriental materials such as Pfellel and Sendal.

But when all these have been classified, there still remains a vast number of names

undoubtedly French in origin, yet which cannot be referred to any known source, and

many of which bear distinct traces of Romance or Provencal influence. Such names

are Anfortas, French, eHfertez=i\hit sick man, with Prov. ending as\ Trevresent, Prov.

Treti^^eajoty rrx^mjs: redeemed. Schoysiane, Vfoy,Jauzianay her husband is Kyot

of Katdangen, Guiot^Guy of Catalonia, The son of Gurnemanz, Schenteflur, is

Prov. gente-florsy fair flower. The name of Parzival's wife, Kondwiramur, Bartsch

derives from Cain de vein amour. Ideal of true love; an interpretation which

admirably expresses the union between the two. Itonj^, Gawain's sister, is the French

Idmie, in Chretien she is Clarissant. The knight slain by Lahelein at Brimbane is

Libbeals of Prienlaskors, Libbeals being simply the old French Li-beals — U bei, and

probably no more a proper name than Orilus, whilst his country seems derived from

Prov. priendn las cortz, to seek the court. The long lists of conquered kings given in

Book XV. contain many names of Greek or Latin origin, which have passed through

a French source, and many others of distinctly Romance form. It is impossible to

suppose that a German poet invented these names, and the only reasonable explans/-

tion seems to be that Wolfram drew largely, if not exclusively, from a French poem

now lost, and that the language in which that poem was written partook strongly of a

Provenfal character, the term Proven9al being applied, as Bartsch points out, not only

to Proven^ proper, but to the varying* forms of the Langue-d'oc.

NOTES

NOTES

{A few Notes signed A. N, are due to Mr, Alfred Nutt. )

BOOK I

Introduction, lines 1-66. This introduction, which is confessedly obscure, both in
style and thought, appears to have been written aßer the completion of the poem, and to
have been intended by the writer to serve both as a key to the meaning of the poem, and
as a defence of his method of treatment That Wolfram was blamed by bis contem-
poraries, notably by Gottfried von Strassbourg, for his lack of a polished style, and
obscurity of thought, we know ; and in Willehalm he speaks, in the following words, of the
varying judgment passed upon his Partival : —

' Swaz ich von Parzivil gesprach,
des sin aventiur mich wiste,
etxiich man daz prtste :
ir was ouch vil, diez smoethen
Und baz ir rtAt. wachten.

and it Is evidently to these critics that the first part of the Introduction is addressed.

Lines i-8 give the key to the whole poem : the contrast between doubt or unsteadfast-
ness, and steadfast faith and truth, as imaged in the contrast between darkness and light,
black and white. This idea runs throughout the poem, is worked out symbolically in the
character and experiences of the hero, and is shown in a concrete form in the person of his
brother Feirefis. The poet notes that many readers have failed, through lack of intelligence,
to grasp the meaning of this parable, which is too swift and subtle for their oompre-
hension. A parallel passage will be found in Book v. pp. 137, 138, where the figure
employed is different. '

The curious lines 15. 16 are explained by Bötticher as allusions to personal assaults
made on the poet, which, by reason of the folly of the assailants, missed their mark, and
are therefore to be treated with contempt.

Lines 29, 30 dbntain one of the quaint and homely similes which abound throughout
the poem, and refer to the fiuthless man, valseh geseUecHekir muot, whose honour and
steadfastness are not sufficiently strong to meet the demands made upon them.

There are three distinct divisions of the Introduction : the first, lines z-30, is addressed
to men only, and draws the contrast between the false and true knight ; 31-49 does the
same for women ; while from 49 onwards the poet shows how the Ule he is about to tell
affects both sexes alike, and gives a slight sketch of the character of the hero. For the
rightful understanding of this the lines 61, 62 are of great importance : ' a brave man, yet
slowly wise Is he whom I hail my hero ' (er kHene, träcltcAe wts, den helt ich aUus grltewe),
and should be borne in mind by the stndent of the poem.

108 PARZIVAL

A ihn and miani« iWiniion of thit Intradnctioii will be tand in Dr. BSttkhflr's Au

V%^^Mm^f^»Nmgik»]^40t^'ät9ütrf0id4im€: The word cmptojfcd here wmiuk
simply ineaas 'lorcicii,' but it itevktantfromtbeooiitekt that Fhuioe is the country refemd
to. T1ieybc#was|«obeblyintbeFkeiicfascmr€e,tbereiiiariuuponitdiw

PlHe5.Uiie8o— 'GMtatrvf.' The origin of this name is douttftd; in Cbrfttien we find
a King Baa de Gomeret mentioned, and Wolfram may have derived the name from t
nencbsooroe. Heiniel soggcsu that it comes ftom Gamer, the son of Aaguis, a Saraoea
prince inlinf in Denmaili, aooording to ' Aithnr and Merlin ; ' and that the fiut of his
being of the race of Angnis wggested toKiot the possifaUity of making him an Angevin.
In the abeenoe of any definite knowledge as to Wolfram's source it is not possible to
do more than t^ggai poasfble derivatkMis.

Page 7, lines i^fi, 137—' Gyisiram and Rankutai.* With regard to the first-named
piece. Simrock says it has been identified with ' Gustrate* in the Gudnm, and, according
to Griflun, this latter is to be coupled with Gailate, 'where the son hath iu setting.' f.#. the
West In Book XI. the palriaich of Rankulat is referred to, in company with the Bamcfa
of Bagdad and the Emperor of Constantinople, and in aU probabiUty Armenia is meant
The Ung's speech therefore fanpUes, ' Didst thou come from the furthest bounds of the
earth. East or West'

Page 8, line 154—' JCiMg GatuUin's jm.' Cf. Book ix. p. 885. where the origin of the
name Gandrin is given.

Page 8. Unes 159, i6a— ' TJüm Ike iah it kaik told a lU: Cf. Book iz. p. 259.

Page 8, lines 169, 170—' Rich tilh tfOrimt* Eastern materials are referred to firequently
throughout the poem ; the principal seem to have been, Samite, Sendal. Achmardi, PMId
Plialt, and Saranthasme. Of these, some were of silk only, others, notably Saranthasme.
of sQk inwoven with gokL Achmardi, in this poem, is always /mw». Samiie and Sendal
are the two generally named in our English romances.

Page 9, line 209—' 7W broikers ofBabyUm* This is Babylon in Egypt, now Cairo.
as is evident from its dose connectk>n with Alexandria, cf. p. za, line 977, and Book it
p. 57, line 684, and p. 59. line 754« Though, firom the passage on p. 57, it seemsas if the
poet confused it with Babylon in Assyria ; it is possible that he was unaware of the fact
that there were two cities of the name.

Page 15. line 384—' PtitMramd* The introduction of names of distinctly northern
origin such as Friedefarand, Hemant, and Herlinde, Heuteger, and Eisenhart, has been
already noted in Appendix B as one of the problems of the PanivaL Two solutions
have been suggested, either that they were introduced by Wolfram, or that they reached
the French woniot through the medium of Normandy. The form in which the names
occur in the Gudrun cycle seems to indicate quotation from a souroe known also to
the writer of the Parwival, but they are not derived directly from the North Sea saga in
its present form.

Page 16. line 403—' Wouldsi ik^m kntm f* i(e* It may be interesting to note here that
beyond the eolomr, which the poet insists on, he apparently recognises no difference
between the heathen and Christian knights and ladies. Both acknowledge the same
chivalrous uleals ; both are equally familiar with the eccentricities of ' Minne-dienst ' (cf.
line 493) ; and the speeches put into the mouth of Bflakan^, or of Rassalig, would be
quite as soluble if spoken by Orgduse, or by one of King Arthurs knights. This inci-
dent of a Christian knight marrying a Moorish princess is of frequent tscconence in
MedisBval romance.

Page t6, lines 493. 494—' Thai which lihe to a hall doth stumd: The tentt of the Medi-
aeval period were constructed of far more costly fabrics than is usual now, cf. Book iit p. 74.

NOTES 103

and Book XL, and thdr tixe was very great, this special tent we find, from Book 11. p. 36,
was ' thirty pack-steeds' burden.' &ui Marte quotes the description of a tent captured by
the Cluaaden at Anttoch which was adorned with walls, towers, and ramparts, contained
halls and gaOeries, and could lodge as many as sooo men.

Page aa, line 690—* TJ^ Mmimf oftwut biUu* Bells were at one time freely used
not only as ornaments to the trappings of the horses but also on the armour of the knights,
of. Book III. p^ 70, and Book VL p. 163. Gradually they disappeared from use, and the
bells on the Fool's dress are the last trace left of the practice, which from this poem was
evidently very general at the beginnmg of the thirteenth century.

Page 7i^ line 623.—' Brave Biau<orps* This brother of Gawaia appears in Book vi.
!>• 183, he is the only one of Gawain's brothers mentioned in this poem. In Malory, we
find Ganih called ' Bcai»-mains,' and it is possible that the two are identical Beau-corps
is evidently much younger than Gawain, and Gareth was the youngest of King Lot's sons.

Page 24, line 679—' Lahfilirost* This seems to be a misunderstanding for ' Le/lls du
R^st* and may be classed with the misinterpretations of a French source.

Page 35, line 700—*/^« Minm,* The word Minnt is etymologically derivable
from a root ' man,' and is connected with the Latin mens, English 'mind' (cf. 'to have
a mind to.') The original signification was that of tender care, or thought for ; in Old
High German it has already taken the meaning of love in its passionate aspects ; finally,
in Middle' High German (the original language of the Parmval), it has become the stand-
ing expression for love betwixt man and woman. We have it in various forms as a verb,
Minnen; as an adjective, MinnigHeh, The personification of the passion of Love as
* Fhui Minne ' is the work of the courtly poets of the twelfth century, and seems rather
to have been derived from classical analogy than to be due to a reminiscence of an early
Qerman goddess of Love. Also, with Wolfram and his contemporaries, * Frau Minne '
must be regarded less as the personification of Love in the abstract than as the embodi-
ment of the special love-ideal of the day. This new ideal had its rise, and assumed
definite shape in twelfth century France, fi^m whence it spread throughout the knightly
society of Christendom, finding its ftiUest literary expression in the Arthurian romances.
The historic causes which led to what was at the time an entirely novel mode of consider-
ing the relations between the sexes, and the true nature and ethical import of the chivalric
conception of that relation will be briefly discussed in an Appendix to voL II. The
s^gnifieance of the term is fully apparent from such passages as the present, also cf.
Book VI. pp. x6i, 163, 165, 171 ; vii. 908, 234 ; xii. etc.— [A.N.]

Page 37, line jfA.^* Morkold,* also in Book ii. p. 39. This is, of course, the well-
known hero in Tristan, The allusion may have been in the original French source, or
introduced by Wolfram, who would know Morhold from the Tristan of Eilhart von
Oberge, composed before zi8a The most fiunous German poem on the subject, the TrisUn
of Gottfried von Strassbourg, was somewhat later in date.

Page 31, lines 886, 887— Cf. Book viii. p. 330 and note.

Page 31, line 904—' Feirefis, ' Bartsch interprets the name as voir fits, * parii-coloured
son.' Other oritks have suggested ' Fairy's son.' The name distinctly indicates a French
origin*

Page 31, line 905^'^ woodland-waster,* ' wald-verschwender,' a hyperbolical term
constant^ employed throughout this poem to denote one who shatters many spears in
fight.

504 PARZIVAL

BOOK U

Pftge 35, line i6. and page 57. line 705*-' WaMs and N^rgals: These, the two kiag-
dornt of Queen Herzeleide, are located by Wolfram in Spain, but they are undoubtedly
Wales and North Wales (the North galis of Malory), the Northern border-land. Panivars
title throughout the poem is i^«r Walds, in French versions U GalMs, an evident indication
of the Celtic origin of the story.

Page $9, lines iiy-xöo. Of the heroes taking part in the Tourney, Uther Pendragon
has 6een mentioned, in Book 1. p. 31. in the gen^ogy of Gamuret. The poet carefuUy
connects his hero with the traditional royal race of Briton as well as with the prinodjr
House of Anjou. Arthur's mother. Amive (not Igraine as in most versions), plays a some-
what important rdle in the later part of the poem, her imprisonment in the castk of the
Magician Klingsor is fully treated of, cf. from Book xi. onwards. King Lot of Norway
(not of Orkney as in the English legend) is frequently alluded to as Gawain's father, but both
he and Uther Pendragon are dead before the real action of the poem commences. This
is the first appearance of Gawain, who, from Book vi. onward, plays a part in the poem
scarcely inferior to that of the hero, Parztval. The Kings of Arragon and Gascony do not
appear again, nor are they alluded to, but Brandelidelein of Puntortois we meet with in
Book xv. as the uncle of King Gramoflans. The King of Askalon must not be confused
with Vergulacht, in Book vixi., this is evidently one of his predecessors. Eidegast of
Logrois is frequently alluded to later on, his murder by Gnunoflans and the desire of his
lady-love, Orgeluse, to avenge him, form the motif oi the later Gawain episodes. This is the
only occasion on which Lähelein appears personally in the poem, but he is constantly
alluded to throughout the course of the story (some remarks on the manner in which he is
introduced wül be found in Appendix A, p. 293). Morhold, cf. note to Book I. Lambdwin,
cf. Book y. p. 153. Gumemans of Gnüuus plays an important role in the Parsival legend,
he is here introduced for the first time, c£ Book iii.

The Tourney. In this poem we find knightly skill in horsemanship and the use
of arms displayed under three distinct forms: the Buhurd, Books xii. and xv., The
Tourney, Book 11., and serious Warfare as in the siege of Pelrapär, Book iv.. and of
Beaurösch. Book vii. The two first were simply intended as displays of knightly skill,
and took their rise in the knightly sports of the ninth century. The Buhurd seems to
have been the original German form, and at first was of a somewhat rough and uncivi-
lised character, the knights riding in bodies at full gallop against each other, and the
whole being a display of force rather than of skill.

The Tourney, or Tom-nament, took its rise in France, and here we find the knights, in
full armour, singly displaying their prowess. Gradually the Buhurd changed its character,
and throughout this poem we find Wolfram treating it as a formal display of skill in horse-
manship, generally to do honour to some favoured guest, as in the reception of Gawain
and Ofgeluse by the knights of the Chiteau Merveil, Book xii. ; in hofK>ur of Feuefis.
Book XV. Still the idea of force was not entirely eliminated, and we find Gawain, in Book
Vit. when he promises the child Obilot that he will fight for her father, telling her that
ihe must ride the Buhurd for him, and, as noted above, the fighting here is in earnest.
In the later form of Buhurd the knights wear no armour, and it is thus distinguished
from the Tonmey, where they were always fully armed.

The Tourney was much more complicated in its rules, and is not always easy to dis-
tinguish from the real warfare into which it not uhfrequently passed. Feirefis, in Book
XV., mentionsyffv modes of attack which seem to have answered to the regular stages of a
Tourney. Niedner explains them as follows : (i) An attack by one troop on another, with

NOTES 305

lance in rest ; (2) An attack from the side, also with lance ; (3) The onslaught of one rider
on a troop of horsemen, in which the aim was to strike the one selected opponent while
avoiding the blows of the others ; (4) The joust proper, or single combat ; (5) The Damen-
stick, a stroke for the honour of the knight's chosen lady, which followed on the joust, and
was specially challenged by knights of exceptional valour. In the Tourney at Kanvoleis
(the only Tourney proper in the poem), it is the two first stages in which Gamuret takes no
part, he only mingles ia the fray when the time arrives to display the valour of the single
champions. The joust, or single combat, was a feature of earnest, as of mimic, w'arfare,
and it is not always easy to distinguish between the two.

In each case the great point was the display of skill in horsemanship, and the use of
the lance or spear. The knights rode at full speed towards each other, and the aim of
each was to strike his opponent in the centre of the shield, ' The four nails,' Book in.
p. 98, or at the fastening of the helmet. Book ix. p. 957. and Book Xii. In either event if
the blow was well aimed, and delivered with sufficient force, the knight was thrown back\\'ard
off his steed. It might happen that both knights were struck, and succeeded in keeping
their seat, while their spears were shivered, then a second joust must be ridden. If either
knight were thrown from his saddle, or his steed fell with him. then he was held to be
vanquished, but if, as not unfrequently happened, the girth of the saddle broke, and the
rider were thrown, then the joust was held to be undecided, and, in the case of real war-
fare, the issue was fought out with swords on foot. Cf. the combat between Parzival and
Klamid^, Book iv. pp. 119, 120. In Book v. we find Parzival and Orilus fighting with
swords on horseback : this is unusual In real warfare the knights would fight till one was
slain, or till the issue was indisputably decided by one being felled to the ground. Wc
occasionally find the combat decided by sheer strength of arm, one knight clasping the
other and throwing him to the ground ; so Parzival conquers Orilus, Book v. p. 149, and
Gawain, Lischois, Book x. Both in Tourney and real "warfare the fight was generally
closed by the vanquished giving his pledge or surety to the victor, who not unfrequently
sent him to yield himself prisoner to some favoured lady, so Parzival sends Kingron,
Klaroidö, and Orilus to Kunnewaare. If the vanquished knight refused to yield he
would be slain, but this did not often happen. The death of Ither of Galieviess is due to
a mischance. Armour and horse were the prize of the victor, though in the case of the foe
being slain it seems to have been thought an unknightly deed to take them, such ' robbery
of the dead' was termed riroup, and Trevrezent, Book ix. p. 273, strongly blames both
Lähelein and Parzival for such action.

The Tourney would often be held simply for honour, the prize being something com-
paratively trifling, such as a hawk, cf. Tourney at Kanedig, alluded to in Book in. p. 77,
and again in Book v. p. 155, but occasionally the guerdon was far higher, as at Kanvoleis
where the hand and kingdoms of Queen Herzeleide were the prize of the victor. Any
dispute^ would be referred to a court of judges from whose verdict there was no appeal.
In such Tourneys it was customary not to retain the horse and armour, but to accept a
ransom fixed by the owner. This is evidently alluded to in Book 11. 45, where we find
these rules disregarded in the heat of conflict.

Opposed to this Tourney ' for honour ' was the Tourney * for booty,' when the aim of the
knights was to capture as many steeds and make as many prisoners as possible, the ransom
being fixed hy iheeaptor. Wolfram does not mention such a Tourney, but with the decay
of knighthood such conflicts appear to have almost entirely displaced the nobler strife.
It will be understood, of course, that though a joust or single combat might either be
settled beforehand, as in the case of Kingrimursel's and Gramoflanz' challenge to Gawain,
or be brought about by a chance meeting, as when Vergulacht and the knight of Monsal-
väsch fight with Parzival, a Tourney was carefully arranged beforehand, and the knights

VOL. I. U

3o6 PARZIVAL

wimnonfd by mvStaUon. The knights geiMraUy assembled on the Satnrday, and Hat
Tourney would be held on the Monday, the interval being employed in carefo! inquiry as
to the claim of thoie present to take a part in such knightly sport. The knights were
divided into two bodies of equal strength, headed by the most experienced warriors present,
and single diampions would not unfirequently try their skill against each other on the eve
of the Tourney proper. Not unfrequently the passions of the kni^ts were roused to sudi
a pitch that this VtspiT'S^l became a serious encounter, and the combatants were so
exhausted that the Tourney could not be held, as was the case at Kanvokis. From the
abuses connected with these meetings, which not unfrequently lapsed into serious warftre,
and caused wanton loss of life, they were looked upon with disfavour by the Church,
and in some cases were positively forbidden.
Page 43, line 92/^* XivaUin* according to Eilhart, the fiither of Tristan.
Page 44, line 979— ' / have named unto yg a lady, ' This is the queen of France, Anffis6,
whose connection with Gamuret is alluded to in Book i. p. 9^ This episode was probably
suggested by facts in Angevin history, of. Appendix. A reference to their connection will
be found in Book viii. p. 233.

Pisge 46, lines 351-60. Galoes the king of Anjou has not bem named before. The
name occurs in Hartmann's £nc, and may have been borrowed from there. The
name of his lady-bjve is given in Book vii. p. 199. The slayer of Galoes was Qrihis,
Book lu. p. 77.

Page 48. line 406—' No wifi was she htt a maiden.* Book ix. p. 383, where a full
account of Herzeleide's marriage will be found. * Herteleide* The modem German
rendering of this name carries with it its own interpretation in the play of words
familiar through Wagner's Panifal^ ' Ihr brach das Leid das Hers und Herzeleide
starb.' But the original form, Herseloyde, indicates, in Bartsdi's opinion, a Southern
French modification, hyde being a variant of kildis^ oildis. The name Riscfaoyde,
we know in its form of Richilda, and Herseloyde seems to come from the same
root. Professor Rhys (Arthurian Romance^ p. x8o) has suggested derivation from the
Welsh ar^getwythes = * the kdy,' but the suggestion has not won general aicceptance.

Page 54, line 6x4—' The maid and her lands he won,' Readers will doubtless remark
the fact that though we meet with numerous allusions to marriages and marriage festivities
throughout the poem, yet in no »ngle instance is the marriage attended by a religious
ceremony. This is an indication of the original date of the story, which testifies to a very
early stage of social development. The original idea of marriage was that of a contract
made by mutual consent publicly before witnesses, as we find here in the marriages of
Gamuret with Belakan^ and Herzeleide, or later on in Book iv. , the marriage of Parzival
and Kondwiramor. The mutual promise being given and witnessed, the contri^ct vras
complete, and the marriage might be consummated at once. The ofiice of the Church
seems atfirst to have been confined to conferring a benediction ona union already completed,
and therefore we find that, even so late as the thirteenth century, the religious ceremony
followed, and did not precede, the marriage night. San Marte, in his note on the subject,
quotes more than one romance of this date where this is the case, and it was not till the
idea of marriage as a sacrament had displaced that of marriage as a civil contract that the
religious ceremony became essential to a valid union. The fact that Wolfram, with his high
ideas of the binding nature of the marriage-vow, never once mentions the religious ceremony
is a strong argument in favour of the presumption that the subject-matter of the Parmval
is considerably older than his treatment of it. Marriage between a Christian and a
heathen was held to be null and void, and, according to the ideas of the age, Heraeletde
was fully within her rights in claiming Gamuret as her husband and in regarding his
previous marriage as non-existent. The costly presents made by the bridegroom, as for

NOTES 307

instance the gift of Waleis and Nötfals to Hersdeide by her first husband, seem to have
been a sorvival of the idea that the woman was property, to be bought by the intending
husband. The bride, on her part, gave equally rich gUts, so we find Kondwiramur
bestowing castles and lands on Parzival, and Üie mutual interchange of these gifts was an
essential part of the marriage contracL

Page 56, line 674—' The panther* The badge of the House of Anjou was a leopard.

Page 59, lines 744, 745. The idea that a diamond might be softened by the apjilication
of a he-goat's blood is very old. San Ma^te says it is mentioned by PUny. Hartmann
refers to it in his Rru^ and it seems to have been a general belief in the Middle Ages.

BOOK III

The first two books of this poem are peculiar to Wolfram. Among the dififerent
versions of the Perceval legend which we possess there is a curiods diversity of statement
as to the parentage of the hero ; though, as a rule, they agree in the main facts of the death
of his father, either before, or shortly after, Perceval's birth, and his being brought up in
the desert by his widowed mother. '

With the Third Book we find ourselves on ground common to most transcribers of the
legend ; and in this and the following books a table of the traditional events contained in
the book, with the other versions of the story in which they occur, will be given. The
following are the Romances of the Grail-^de which deal more particularly with the
rercevai legenQi—

Li Co»U del Graalt poem by Qirfttien de Ttoyes ; left unfinished at Chretien's death ;
it was continued by three other writers ; the poem as we have it, is the work of at least four
different hands.

Peredur: Welsh tale found in the Red Book of Hergest

Percival: A French prose romance, ascribed by many critics to Robert de Borron.

Sir PtrcyvßlU of Galles: English metrical romance— author unknown.

Peruoal H GalMs : French prose romance, also by an unknown writer.

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

The son of a widowed mother ;
Brought up in the desert ;
Meeting with knights and departure for
Arthur's court.

Cluitien : Peredur ; Sir Percyvdle.

Meeting with Jeschut^, ' The Lady of the Ibid,
Tent.'

Meeting with Siguni. In this place only in Pereevat, later

meeting in the other verrions.

Arrives at Arthur's court and demands All the versions,
knighthood.

5o8 PARZIVAL

Meetiof with tbe Red Knight; lUfshia; Chrfttien: Peredur, and Sir Percyvdk
and takes his annour. closely agree as to the meeting. All agree

as to the wearing of the red armour. In
Perceval, alone, hero does not kill the knight
who originally owns it.

Laughter of Kunaewaare; speech of Chretien: maiden and fool; Peredur;
Antanor and their smiting by Kay. dwarf and eompanion.

Arrival at castle of old knight, who coun- Chretien : Sir Percyvelle.
sels hero.

(It will be found that, from Elooks III. to xiii. inclusive, there is a very close parallelism
between Wolfram's poem and Chretien's share of Zi Conte del GraaL)

Introduction, lines 1-45. This imroduetion, like that to Book I., appears to have
been written after the completion of the poem, and to have been intended by the poet as
a defence of his attitude towards women ; certainly the lines 13-15 presuppose certain
statements which had aroused the wrath of the lady hearers of the poet The whole
passage is interesting on account of its stronf^y personal character. In Book vi. Widfram
refers more than once to the lady who has wronged him (pp. 163, 166, 191), and in tenns
that show, as here, that he bitterly resented her treatment. The line * Born was I imto
the bearing of knightly shield and spear,' is the only definite statement as to the poet's
rank in life which we possess, and in the light of his lasting fame as a poet it is curious
to find him holding his gift of song as of less account than his knightly deeds, which do
not seem to have been more remarkable than those of his fellows.

From Book iv. p. laa, we learn that Wolfram was married, and, from the concluding
lines of Books vi. and xvt., it is clear that the Parzival was composed with a view to
winning, or retaining, the favour of a lady, but the only direct personal allusion throngh-
out the entire poem is that to the Margravine of Hettstein in Book viii. p. 33a, and the
passage is too vague to allow of our identifjring the lady named either with Wolfram's
£aiitHles8 love, or with her for whose sake he composed his poem ; certainly the Margravine
was not his wife.

Page 67, line 6x — ' SoUants strand,* This is one of the many instances in the poem
in which an adjective has been taken as a proper name. In the French source it was
undoubtedly an adjective meaning ' solitary,' ' waste.' In Chr^en we find la gast* fortst
mltaifu : other versions speak of the woods, or the desert, none but this gives a proper
name.

Page 69. line \x^^* VlUrltg's Cwnt: Oultre-lac, 'beyond the lake,' cf. Louis
D'outremer. This is again an instance of a qualifying term used as a proper name.

Page 73, line aao — ' Mtljakant* This exploit is quite in keeping with the character of
the knight, cf. Book vii. p. 198. In Malory we meet with the same character, as Sir
Meliagraunce ; and the story of his abduction of Guinevere, and her rescue by Launcelot
is there given in full.

Page 73, line 340— '/>r sonu cunning wiU of woman.' It is curious to note that
nothing comes of these elaborate precautions on the part of Herseleide. Psraval's fool's
dress seems to excite very little attention, nothing is said of it on his appearance at
Arthur's court, nor do we hear of any one mocking bim for It. The effect produced by
his personal beauty is much more strongly insisted upon. There is also a decided dis-
crepancy between the mother's anxiety to keep her son firom danger and her suggestions
to him to avenge the wrong Lähdein has done him.

NOTES 309

Ptege 73, line ^—^LäkeUm* Cf. Appendix A, and remarks on this character.
Heiniel suggests that Lähelein—LleweUwyn, a prince of South Wales who conquered
North Wales in 1015. But if a parallel between the boyhood of Parzival and that of
Henry Fitz-Empress be intended, as seems probable, the Welsh conoection is of too early
a date. The remarks in Heinzel's pamphlet, * Ueber Wolfram von Eschenbach's Panuvalp
as to Lähelein being undoubtedly an historical personage, are worthy of note. It is
remarkable that we find no equivalent to this character in other versions d[ the story.

Page 74, line 287 — ' Brixiljan's wood.* Most probably Brocdiande, where so many
of the adventures of King Arthur and his knights tsJce place. Undoubtedly this wood was
in Brittany, but the localities in the poem are much confused.

Page 74, Hne 997—* Duie Orilus of Lalanit.* This name is again a misconception of
a French original, * Li Orgueilhus de-la-laHde, which Wolfram has taken as a proper
name. In other versions the lady is unnamed. (It may be noted that Wolfram almost
invariably names his characters ; and often goes to some trouble to connect them with
each other, and the main thread of his story. This tendency to account for everything,
zmm motiviren» is a marked feature in Wolfram's writings.)

Page 76, line 365 — ' Thy brother^ King Lac's son Erec* An allusion to the Erec of
Hartmann von Aue (founded upon Chretien's Erec and dealing with the same subject as
found in the Welsh tale of Geraint and the late Laureate's Enid) where the tournament at
Prurein is described.

Page 77, line 374 — ' Proud Galots* The slaying alike of Parzivai's uncle Galoes, and
of his kinsman Schionatulander (p. 80) by Orilus, Lähelein's brother, is also peculiar to
Wolfram, but it is curious that the Rache''moHf^x& introduced is not followed up, and
when Parzival overthrows Orilus it is to avenge the shaming of Jeschut^, nor, though
Orilus mentions his brother as having won two kingdoms, Book v. p. 150, does Parzival
connect the mention with the loss of his own heritage. This seems to indicate that the
special r6Ie assigned in this poem to the two brothers was not a part of the original story,
and has not been perfectly fitted into the framework.

The name of Orilus' wife, Jeschut^, is supposed to be derived from a misunderstand-
ing. Wolfram having interpreted the verb gisoii, lay, as a proper name.

Page 77, line 375—' TAe knight PlihopUheri: A knight of the Round Table men-
tioned in Hartmann's Iwein (founded on Chretien's Chevalier au Lyon, the subject-
matter of which is the same as that of the Welsh Lady of the Fountain),

Page 78, line 409— This shaming of Jeschut^ will strongly recall to English readers the
story of Enid and Geraint,

Page 79, line 437 — ' Siguni and Schionatulander,^ The loves of these two are related
in Wolfram's unfinished poem of Titurei,yfbtre the full account of Schionatulander's fafal
chase of the hound, or brächet, is given. The adventure with the weeping damsel occurs
in other versions of the Perceval legend, but in none does she play so important a part as
in the Parxival, vide Book v. p. 141 ; Book ix. p. 252 ; and Book xvi. Her parentage
is given in Book ix. p. 274.

Page 79, line 466— ' Thou art Parzival,* The interpretation here given of the hero's
name betrays clearly its French origin, Perce-wil, In the Krone of Heinrich von Türlin
the writer explains Val9& Thal^ valley, or Furch — furrow. Wolfram seems to have under-
stood it in this second sense, and has given the name a symbolic meaning peculiar to him-
self. In Chretien's poem no derivation or interpreution of the name is given, and the'
hero himself guesses his name ; nor do the special terms of endearment, evidently quoted
by Wolfram from a French source, occur in Chretien's version of the story.

Page 80, \\M4ffj'^'*Twas a churl* Wolfram's aristocratic contempt for peasants
may be noted in other passages, cf. Book 11. p. 43, and vii. p. 9x9.

3IO PARZIVAL

Page 8if line 517 — ' Herr Hartmaum von Aui.' Hartmann fon Aue was a fiunoiis
Qerman poet of the twdfth century. If not absolatdy the first to introdnce the Arthurian
legends into Germany (Eilhart't Tristan is earlier than Hartmann's works), he was the
writer who first rendoed them popular in that coimtiy. His principal poems are Erec,
written aboat 1191 ; and Iwdm laoa, both of which are fivquently referred to by
Wolfram. They were founded on two poems by Chretien de Tiroyes, Eru and Lt
CkoMlier au Ly&n, but Hartmann was not a mere translator ; he handled his materials
with considerable skill, and with an insight into the characters and motives of his
dramatis fersomm which is distinctly a feature of the Girmam presentment of these legends
Enid and her mother Kamafite are characters in the Eree, The story of another Of
Hartmann's poems, Dir arme Heimrickt iawell known to English readers through
Longfellow's version of it in The Golden Legend*

Page 8a, line 534—' N9 Kurwenal vtas Mis teacher,* Kurwenal is the fiiend and tutor
of Tristan. In Malory we find the name ' Gouvemail,' and it seems probable that here
again we have a term denoting an office converted into a proper name.

Page 8a, line 549— ' //A^r of Gahiveiss.* Ither« Welsh Ider ; Gaheviess—^i-v*««. old
wood. Chretien calls hxm'de laforU de KinkerloU '

Page 8a. line 544—' Tht Red Knight,* This character is evidently one of the tradi-
tional features of the story ; though the circumstances of the meeting difier, there is no
version without its ' Red Knight.' In those romances of the Grail-cyde in which Perceval
has been deposed from his original position as hero in favour of Galahad, we find the
latter wearing the armour, and bearing the title, of the Red Knight. Here again Wolfram
is the only writer who names him, but it is somewhat startling to find the king of
Cumberland claiming Brittany, From Book IX. pp. 373 and 285. we learn that he was
Parzival's kinsman. It may be interesting here, and may help to the better understanding
of the poem, if we describe the armour of a knight at the end of the twelfth century. The
principal piece of defensive armour was the Hauberk (Halsberg), a coat formed of rings of
steel which reached to the knee, and had sleeves ending ih iron gauntlets. Attadied to
this, and forming one piece with the Halsberg, was the Härsenier, a cap of chain mail
which was drawn over the head below the helmet. The upper part of the face was pro-
tected by the ' Nasen-band,' a band of iron provided with eye-holes ; and the lower part
by the ' Finiäle,' a part of the * Härsenier' which passed round and over the chin ; above
this the helmet was fastened. (The use of the word < visor' in the translation is an
anachronism, as the visor proper was not introduced till later, but there was no other word
which would express what was meant with equal brevity and clearness. ) Foot and leg
were clad in hose of iron, and the knee and elbow were specially protected by plates of iron
or schinnelier. Over this harness many knights wore the Waßen-rock, a long sleeveless
garment of silk on which the. badge of the knight was embroidered in gold and jewelsw
The sword was giri above this garment. The knight would also bear his distinguishing
badge on helmet, shield, and the truncheon of his spear. The shield was of wood,
strengthened with bands of metal, and often decorated with precious stones, ef. the descrip-
tion of Feirefis' shield iti Book XY. The shield was long-shaped, three-cornered, and was
held in the left hand close to the body, the spear was carried in the right, so that the horse
was guided by the knee, not by the hand, of the rider. The spear was a blade of steel, set
into a long heft of wood, or reed. Röhr, probably Bamboo, sometimes even the rough
trunk of a young tree, as in Book iv. p. 519. Shield and spear were alike painted hi the
same colours as the robe of the knight, and the horse had a like covering of silk beneath
the saddle and over the coat of mail with which it was protected.* The description
given by Wolfram of the arms and accoutrement of the Red Knight of Parzival, Book iv.
p. 19, and Orilus. Book v. pp. 147-148, seq,, will give a very clear idea of the appearance
of a knight in full battlcanray.

NOTES 311

PBi[t 83. line 570^* To tkä Table Round I eawu,* Here we find an allusion to two
ttethods of laying claim to a property. There seems a difference of opinion as to the
first ; Simrock holds that the pouring oat of the wine constituted the claim ; Bartsch.
that the point of the action lay in carrying off some part of the property daimed. This
seeins the moce probable interpretation, the pouring out of the idne then, as well as the
sprinkling the queen, would be aocidentaL In Chretien the indignation of king and queen
at the insttU is far more strongly 'emphasised. The burning of a wisp of straw, as «
dadaration of rights claimed, is mentioned by Grimm in his Deutseki RtehtsalUrihümer.

Page 93i line f^i6^* Iwantt,* The diminutive of I wein, the weU-known hero of
Hartmann's poem (the Owain, son of Urien of Rheged, of Welsh tradition).

Bsge Z^-r*Parnval ui tki court of King Arthur* There are some distinctive
features in Wolfiimm's version of this incident. Parsival's behaviour towards die
King, though unconventional, is fax less discourteous than that ascribed to him either
by Chretien or by the English ' Sir PercyveUe.' In Chretien's poem, Perceval rides into
the hall, where he finds the long and courtiers plunged in grief at the insult offered to them
|yy the Red Knight. The king does not reply to Perceval's greeting, and the lad rides so
close to him that his horse's head knocks off the king's cap. A reason for the fidlure of
the Knighu of the Round Table to avenge the insult offered by the Red Knight is sug-
gested in the fact that they are already wounded in battle. [The student of Irish heroic
saga cannot fail to recall the strange disability under which the knights of Concbobor's court
suffered at times and which completely prostrated them. The province of Ukter would
have lain defenceless were it not that the Cuchulainn alone was firee from the disability, and
single-handed defied the men of the rest of Ireland. There are many points of contrast
between the onfancis of Cuchulainn and those of PercevaL— A.N.] The kindly feel-
ing shown both by Arthur and Guinevere towards Ither is not paralleled in Chretien,
where the Red Knight is represented as Arthur's deadliest foe, and Guinevere is like to
die of shame and wrath at the insult offered to her. Chrltien also places Perceval's
refusal to dismoutit ktrtt whereas Wolfram places it on his arrival at Gumemans' castle.
In Chretien the hero tdls the Red Knight of his intention to demand his armour from
Arthur, and there is no trace of the courteous and poetical greeting which Ither here
addresses to PanivaL The confusion of the Red Knight with the hero's own personal
foe is of course due to the introduction of the iJihelrin episode urtiich is peculiar to
Wolfram ; but ChrMen has a most curious passage connected with Perceval's inability to
disarm his dead antagonist :

' Ains Miroie par carb6ii6et
Trestoat escarbellaft 1« mori,
Qm nttltt des armes «nport ; '

which as it stands is decidedly difficult of interpretation ; while in the English'Sir Percy-
veUe we find the hero saying :

* My moder had me,
Whome my dart sold« brokene be
Owte of the Irene breone the tree,'

which evidently indicates the source of Chretien's curious remark. An examination of the
different versions seems to show that, while the German is the fuller and more poetical, the
Fkench is here closer to the original form of the story.

Pages 85 and 86, lines 635. 658--' Kay thi SeneuhaL* The character of Kay is one of
the problems of the Arthurian legends. In all the tales he is represented as filling the
office of Senesdial, and in all he is represented as a man of roufi^ manners, violent temper,
and bitter tongue: The Seneschal (Sines-sckafi), the oldest servant, was master of the

312 PARZIVAL

ceremonies, one of the chief personages of a royal honsfhold, and not unfreqnouly the
trusted confidant of the king ; but such a chastisement as Kay here, and in other versions,
inflicts upon Kunnewaare. was distinctly outside his office, and, taking into connderation
the standing of Kunnewaare and Antanor, quite inconceivable. Here, as in other
instances. we have traces of an original tradition dating from a time when a fur roagher
code of manners and customs obtained. WoUram, while adhering closely to his sooroe,
and to the traditional representation of Kay's character, was evidently extremely pnzried
by the undignified and discourteous part allotted to him, and in Book vi. (p. 169) he
diverges from the story in order to explain what he feels to be a difficulty, and to defend
Kay at some length. The Northern French poets apparently felt the same, and as Kay
is generally represented as Arthur's foster-brother they invented the fable that the
unknightly traits in his character were due to his having been committed to the care of
a peasant nurse when his mother took charge of the infant Arthur.

Page 85, line 65a—' Tht maidtm Kunnevoaare.' The ' ]au|^ng damsel' seems to be
an archaic and misunderstood element in the Grail romances. A common incident of
folk-tales is for the hero, fool, lout, or utterdemalion, to win to wife a princess who has
not laughed or spoken for years by inducing her to do either of these things. Some suqh
incident has apparently been woven into an heroic romance, the main outlines of which
were already fixed, so that the actual conclusion, marriage of the hero with the laughing
damsel, has been disturbed. Note, however, the homage paid by Panival to Kunae*
waare, and her evident affection for him (Book vi. pp. Z8X-185). Her name too is sug-
gestive, it has been derived from la fuctU a la gonne vaire (the maiden with the coloured
robe), bat in its present form it is suspiciously like Kondwiramur, and it should be noted
that it is the rejected lover of this queen whom Kunnew^uure eventually marries. Is it
possible that the Perceval romance from which both Chretien and ' Kiot' drew contained
doublets of this personage? In the one case in her original, in the other in a modified
form. An instructive parallel may be adduced from the saga of Cuchulainn. He is the
hero of an Andromeda episode and should by rights wed the delivered heroine, but the
story being already fixed before the episode was assimilated, the heroine is passed on to a
companion of the hero. — [A. N. ].

Page 89, line 766—' Matstricki^ or itn Cologne* German art, in the early Middle Ages,
reached its highest level in the Rhenish provinces, especially at Cologne.

Page 91, line 8a8 — ' Gurmemant of Graharz.' The old knight who instructs the hero
in knightly duties is a traditional part of the story, and belongs to most of the ver-
sions. In Peredur, he is identified with the Fisher King, Perceval's uncle. In Chretien
his name is given as Gonemans of Gelbort ; in Gerbert, Chr^ien's continnaior, he is,
Gomemant (one of several points of contact between Gerbert and Wolfram's source).

Page 91, line 847— He hade them lead the guest im.' This is one of the many passages
which afford an interesting glimpse of the manners and customs of a bygone age. It
may be well to summarise here what we know of the reception and treatment of a guest in
the Middle Ages. If a strange knight rode into the court-yard of a castle he was received
by squires and pages, who held his bridle and assisted him to dismount. The guest was
then conducted to a chamber where he was disarmed and provided with suitable robes.
In every important household there was a Kleider-kammer^ or wardrobe, presided over
by a chamberlain, whose office it was to see that all guests were provided with garments
fitted to their station. The preparation of these dresses was the work of the women of the
household, and it can have been no light task, as even if a whole company arrived th^
would all expect to be provided with the requisite dress. The guest, being robed, was
then conducted to the great Hall, which was in the upper story of the castle. Half-way
on the staircase leading to it, he would be met, and welcomed with the kiss of greeting, by

NOTES 313

both hott and hottets (c£ Book iv. p. 107), and led by them into the Hall where he
would receive the greeting of the assembled company. When all were seated the guest
would say who he was, and whence he came, but, if he kept silence on this point, it was not
etiquette to ask him till the next momiog (cf. Book ill. p. 95). The evening meal then
followed, after which, on occasions of great festivity, such as that recounted in Book xiix.
(marriage feast of Qawain and Orgeluse) there would be dancing, otherwise the time seems
to have been spent in conversation till the appearance of the wine-cup, Nacht Trunks
gave the signal for separation. Then knights conducted the guest to his chamber, where
pages disrobed him, and apparently waited Vith lighted tapers till he fell asleep. The
account given here of Parzival's visit to Gumemans gives a very good idea of how the
following day would be spent, indeed Wolfram's love for detailed description, and accuracy
of statement render this poem peculiarly valuable to a student of the manners and customs
of the Middle Ages.

From various hints in the Gawain episodes, notably Books x. and xi., it seems as if the
privilege extended to a guest might on occasion be construed with a freedom decidedly
repellent to modem ideas.

Page 96, lines 984, 985—' Fullßv$ shall thy sensa be. Cf. Book ix. p. 200.

Page 98, line 1055—' The frince badt his daughter hither,* The introduction of
Gumemans' daughter, and her incipient love af&ir with Parzival is peculiar to this
version. There is a curious discrepancy to be noted between the apparent susceptibility
of the hero here and in Book ix. pp. 360, 261, and his indifference to feminine charms
displayed elsewhere, notably in his rejection of Orgeluse's advances and neglect of the
Chateau Merveil adventure. The latter presentment seems most in accordance vnth
Parzival's character ; is the susceptibility to be ascribed to the/M/?

Page 99, Une 1080—' / lose once more a son, ' The sons of the old knight are mentioned
in other versions, but Wolfram alone names them. The circumstances of Schenteflur's
death are recounted in Book I v. p. xax ; the account given of the other two sons is largely
borrowed from Hartniann's £rec, where the strife for the hawk at Kanedig, and the
venture. Schoie-de-la-kurt (which is not a person, but an expedition), is fully recounted.
Brandigan is Klamide's kingdom, cf. Book iv. ; Mabonagxein, his cousin, Book iv. p. 123.
Mahaut is another form of the name Matilda. From Titurel we learn that Gurzgrei and
Mahaut were the parents of Schionatulander, Sigun^'s lover, cf. also Book viii. p. 245
and note.

BOOK IV

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

Chrfttien and hisoontinuator Gerbert ; Pere-
dur ; Sir Pcrcyvelle.

Arrival at besieged city ; maiden of the"
castle beseeches the hero's aid ; over-
throwal of her enemies and final marriage
with maiden.

Name of the maiden ; Chretien, Blanche-fleur ; Sir Percy velle Lufamour ; Peredur
unnamed.

Page T03, line 17 — ' Who rideth astray, etc* According to Simrock this passage in
the original contains a play upon words which cannot be reproduced in translation :
Slegel««8chlegel, the word employed for axe here, signifying, in some parts of Germany,
* a fallen tree.'

314 PARZIVAL

VwißiQ^Vstmte^^TkäHfyü/Fiirmpär: InChrftlieBibentiMorüiecityii «Beui-
raiMire/ofwhichtfaistoevkleDtly theOermaaranderfaig. Tbe tnbttitiitionor/ for iis
fUn a diitingBiihing marie of Qemuui pronaadatfcm of FVendi. la Sir PtrcyvtlU It is
' the BMidai lud.'

Pitai04*liiie9»^'rAtf JTCv^^^M»^* ThU diiractar is named by Wolfram aad
CMden only; in Ptndmr he is the Eari; in Sir PirtyvMe^ 'Sowdane.' CairMea
caOs him *CIamadex/ and it is worthy of note that \n Pmrttiml li Gallois the son of
tbe Red Knight shun by Perceval Is etlled 'X^hunadaSt' evidently a'variant of the same

Fife t05, hne 78— 'A> Urd tJU C^umi tf W^rikHm: Werthdm is in Lo
Fhmoooia. Bartsdk tbnks either Poppo i. or his son Poppo n. is referred to here.
From the expression used, ' my lord/ it seems as if Wolfram had at one time been in his

Page 106. line 89—* Trükmümg: There are three places of this name in the ndc^
boQihood of Eschenbach : Hohen, Alten, and Waster-lVflhending. The Utter is still
famoos for ks kraffm, a kind of pancake.

Page 107, Une 119—* ICi^t pfKäUlangm (i.e. Catalonia) and Bian/Uot: Kkn is the
father of Signal, and appean agaui in Book zvi. The acoomit of his maniagie with
Schoisiaae, hier death, and his subsequent adoption of the life of a hermit will be foond
in Book ix. p. 974. From Wolfram's nnfiniriied poem of Tiiurti we learn that MaafikK
was his compankm.

Page 107, line 133—' The tnmin Jsoidt,* An allusion to Isolde la BeUe, the wile of
King Mark of Cornwall, and mistress of Sir Tristan ; and Isolde of the white hand,
Tristan's wile.

Pige Z09, line ao8, ttq,^* TiU the cry of ktari-sormo woMi Mim,* This nocturnal
visit of the Lady of the castle to the hero's chamber seems to be part of the original tradi-
tion, and it Is evident by the apologetic manner in which Wolfram teOs the stoiy that he
is somewhat pussled by Kondwiramur's conduct. From the Introduction to Book YIL,
and also from the blame he bestows on Chretien for haying done a wrong to the story,
Diis$ Mart umrteki geikan, we gather that Wolfram set a hig^ value on fidelity to his
source, and these and similar apologetic passages must be explained by the unwillingness
of the poet to depart from the traditional form of the legend, while, at the same time, the
story, representing as it did the manners and customs of an earlier and ruder period, was
somewhat distasteful to him.

Page no. line 343—' Kingrtm ik* SenuehaL* This character is Aguigrenons in
Chrftiien, elsewhere he is unnamed. Mr. York Powell points out that Wolfram's form
presupposes an Agingrenons. which would either indicate that the existing MSS; of Chi^
tien, or ChrMen himself, misread if for n. or that Wolfram did m/ get his version by ear
as he maintains (or that Wolfram was following a source other than Chretien).

Plage X14. line 365. seq. — ' Tkt marriage might,* A similar account is given by Ger-
l>ert, one of the condnitators of Chretien. (Chretien himself does not record the mairiage,
which takes place on a later visit of the hero to Beau-repaire. ) In Gerbert's version we
have an indication of later intfuenoe, as the motive-power is the recognition by both
Perceval and his bride of the superiority of virginity to the married state. Wolfram's
versk» seems far more in accordance with the character of the hero, and is probably closer
to ther original form of the story.

Page 116. line 420—' Galegandres, Duke of Gippofus: This character and Count
Narant only appear here. Uckerland is probably a corruption of Oultrehmd, as noted in
Book in.

PagojtxS. line 505—' Gringort,* The French Gri^goin^Qrtgorj, AH this a«QOint ef

NOTES 315

Klamid^'a arms» charger, etc. is peculiar to Wolfram ; whose fondness fior minute and
descriptive detail is a noticeable characteristic

Page lax, line ^^1^^* Dianasdron,* Dinaderon en Gales in Chr^ien, who does not
mention Karminol. In the roll of King Arthur^s knights we find* such names as Sir
Dinas, Sir Dinant, Sir Dinadan ; all of which seem to come from the same root The
name is probably Keltic, and belongs to the original version of the story.

Page X93. line 660—' Mabomagrtin* Cf. Book lu. p. xo8 and note

BOOK V

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

Hero meets with the Fisher King ; visiu the Cbrdtien and continuators : Peredur ; Per-

Grail Castle, sees the Grail, lance, etc., but eeval; Perceval li GalU»s. (Sir Percyvdle

asks no question, and is therefore reproadied omits everything connected with the Grail.)
by maiden with dead knight.

(The reader will find all this part of the legend, the varying forms of the visit to the
Grail Castle, the Fisher King, the Grail, etc, fully discussed in Mr. Alfred Nutt's SMUs
on the Legend tfike Holy Grail.)

Page X31, line ^i^' Abenberg* s field,* Castle and town of Abenberg, in the neigh-
bourhood of Eschenbach.

Page 131, line j$'^*Repanse de ScMoie,* This name appears to signify 'Thought of
joy. ' The Grail maidens are not named in other versions.

Page 133, line 87—' TAen one to the host would call him,* This was evidently the
Court Jester, always a privileged person.

Page 13a, lines 109, izo— ' Ugnnm Aloe,* Bartsch holds this to be a mistake of the
poet, who has misunderstood the old French word Aloer, Chr6tien has simply seces
boisa, ' Wildberg' was the home of the poet, who is here making allusion to his poverty,
as in Book iv. p. xo6.

Page 133, line iii-'* And the host had bid them lay him.* *The Maimed King'
invariably figures in the Grail Romances, whether they deal only with the Quest, as here,
or with the early history of the Grail. He is generally wounded through the thifi^ either
with a lance, or with a sword, but the drcuinstances under which he receives the wound
vary greatly^ In most of the versions he is met with while engaged in fishing, and is
known as the Fisher King, or the ' Rich Fisher.'

Page 132, line 195—' The bleeding lance,* This is a feature in most of the Grail
Romances, and seems to have been an original feature of the story, though it had not the
close connection with the Grails which the fully developed Christian legend has given to
it In the earlier versions of the story it is the weapon with which the Maimed King was
wounded ; finally, it became the spear with which our Lord's side was pierced on the cross.
Wolfiam, ^o never appears to connect the Grail with the Passion, gives it the first mean-
ing. The visit to the Grail Castle is told in varying forms, but the King, the Grail, Sword,
and Lance almost invariably appear, and the hero is either Perceval or his companion
Gawain, but Perceval is, undoubtedly, the original hero of the Quest;

Page 133, line 137 and Jcy.— ' The Grail Froctssion* In Chretien this is much more

3i6 PARZIVAL

simply treated. There are tvro squires bearing candlesticks, and two maiden«, one
whom carries the Grail, the other a silver dish, iaiiUor, Wolfram has evidently
the opportunity to give play to his love of detailed description, and his account of
Grail Feast and the Grail Maidens is far more elaborate than any given elsewhere.

Page 136, line aas—' Tht food-supplying powtrsof iJU Grail,* In other ronuuices
the cyde we find similar powers attributed to the Grail. Malory, who borrowed
from the QuisU and Grand S. Graal, gives a hlte account There is evidently a
nection between this feature of the Grail, and the food-supplying talismans whic^ figw
largely in the legendary lore of most countries.

Page 137. line 247 — ' A squire who a sword did bear.' Cf. p. 144, lines 47a and seq*
This incident also occurs in Chretien, and in varying form in most of the versions. In this]
poem the meaning and use of the sword are somewhat inexplicable. In CluMen
word will break in cue peril, known only to irs maker, and then can be made whole by|
dipping it in a lake. Wolfram's account seems to be based on a misunderstanding of
French original. In some of the other versions the sword is already broken, and can ootj
be made whole by the achiever of the Quest. In Wolfram the sword is a very puzzUngl
feature of the story, with which indeed it seems to have little or no connection. The swordj
which breaks in Parzival's deadly combat with his unknown brother, is not this sword, but
the one taken from Ither of Gaheviess.

Page 137, line 267 — * Th* fairest of old men, ancient.' Tiiurel, cf. Book ix. p. SS87.

Page 137, line 273 — *'Tis a symbol good ^ the bowstring.' Introduction to Book i., line
9, and note.

Page 139, line 335 — ' The garden of Paradise.' This is one of the allusions n'hich
seem to connect the Grail in Wolfram's version with an Oriental source, cf. p. 135.

Page 141, line 371—'^ hidden hand drew the rope taut.' Chretien has the incident
of the drawbridge rising, but in no other version are the reproaches addressed to the hero
immediately on his leaving the castle, they are invariably put into the mouth of the maiden
with the dead knight. In the Perceval the maiden's wcwds, * The Lord hates thee,' recall
Wolfram's Ihr suit varen der sunnen hag, which Bartsch says is an ancient formula of
declaring a person accurst, and unworthy of the light of day.

Page 141, line jßi^* Doubled the throw of sorrow.* Cf. Book iir. p. 100; Book 11.
p. 47. Similes borrowed from games of chance are not unusual in this poenL

Page 141, line 397 — ' A woman's voice make moan. ' This meeting with the maiden
after the visit to the Grail Castle is in most versions the only one. In Chretien she now
tells the hero his name which he learns or guesses for the first time. It was not improb-
ably this incident which led cither Wolfram, or his source, to place a first meeting
earlier in the story while still retaining one in the original position. Wolfram, with
characteristic love for detail, follows up the history of Sigunö far more fully than other
writers of the cycle.

Page 142, line 437 — ' Monsalvasch* Probably ' Mont Sauvage,' in allusion to its wild
and lonely position. A full accoimt of the Grail and its keepers is given in Book ix.
pp. 270, 271.

Page 143, line 463 — * Lunete.' A character in Hartmann's Iwein, from which the
episode is quoted. Cf. Book ix, p. 252, and opening of Book xil.

Page 144, line 475 — ' Trebuchet.' This name is also given in Chretien ; he is attuded
to again p. 147, and in Book ix. p. 281, in connection with the knives of silver men-
tioned in line 498 of this book.

Page 147, line 595—' Tettabroc.' Also p. 133, line 146. This name is borrowed from
Hartraann's Erec. Chretien has ' Danebroc.*

Page 147, line 601—' Beälttnan.' According to Bartsch this name is comhined fi^n

NOTES 317

Pr0¥eii9al, beal, fair ; man, height-»' the fair height/ which would suit very well with the
position of Angers, the capital of Anjou.

Page 153, line 760—' WUd Taurian, Doiinis brother: Cf. Book IX. p. 265. Taurian
does not seem to have been identified, but Dodimt appears, in many of the Arthnrian
romances, alwap with the title of ' Le Sauvage.' So we find him named in Malory.
Wolfram seemed to have transferred the characteristic from one brother to the
other.

Page 255, line ^^^—*I<fnit HU son of Idoi: Hiis is the French name Geoffrey.
Mentioned again in Book vi. line z68. Most critics identify this character with Chretien's'
GißisHfiusDo,

BOOK VI

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

"Blood drops on the snow and love-trance Chrfttien : Peredur.
of hero.

Overthrows Kay and Segramor. (P^ceval Li Gallois relates a similar in-

cident of Gawain. )

Hero is cursed by Grail messenger for his Chretien : Peredur.
failure to ask the question. (In Perceval there is a cursing by Meriin. )

Page 159, line Or-* From Karidol and his kingdom, Karidol— Carduel or CardoUe,
the Anglo-Norman form of CariisJe. This is undoubtedly Arthur's original capital, but
throughout this poem Nantes seems to be regarded as the royal city. Curiously enough
we find the two names combined in Gautier de Doulens, one of the continuators of Li
ConU del Gruni, who introduces, as one of his dramoHs penonm, Carduel of Nantes.

Page 160, line 39—' IVkitsuntideJ* An examination of the Romances will show this
statement to be correct ; Pentecost and Christmas seem to have been the two feasts held
in especial honour at King Arthur's court

F^^^e z6o, line 49 — ' Blood-droßs on the snow. Both Wolfram and Chretien insist only

on the two colours, red and white, and the fact thai they are pozsled by, and think it

necessary to explain, the presence of snow at Whitsuntide shows that they are taking

over the inddent firom an older source. As a matter of fact it is to be found in tales

unconnected with the Arthurian cjrcle, and of varying nationality. In Peredur (Welsh) a

raven has settled upon the body of a wild goose killed by a leiloon, and the bero thinks of

three colours (black, for hair ; white, for skin ; red, for cheeks) ; in the Fate of the Sons

of Umocht an Irish tale written down before the middle of the twelfth century, and

probably centuries older, these three colours are likewise present, but it is a calf instead

of a wild goose that is slain, and it is the heroine, not the hero, who is fascinated by the

colours. The incident has always been a favourite one with Celtic story-tellers (cf. Argyll

Tales, M'Innes and Nutt, pp. 431-34). and curiously it is the slain-^W, instes^ of the

slain-f«^ version which predominates, although the Fate of the Sons of Usnech is

probably the most famous of all Irish stories, and no traceable literaiy influence of the

Welsh tale upon Irish romance is known. Those familiar with Grimm's üniry talcs will

remember a similar incident in the story of Snowdrop, where the queen pricks her

finger, and wishes for a daughter with hair as black as the ebony window-frame^ skin as

vrhite as the snow, and cheeks as red as the blood ; but here, of course, the ' fasdaation '

3iS PARZIVAL

dement ii ebiienL 1 have attempted to show (* the iai of EUdac and the oilifcfaen d
Schneewittchen/ FM Lgrt, iii. x), that the Gadic version of the Scfaneewittdwa tjrpe tf
stofy repraicntt the earlleet attainable form of the story.— {A.N.].

Fl^e x6a, line 87—' S^grawtmr,* or Saigremors. This knight is a (amiliar fignre in tk
Arthorian Romances, and the episode is quite in aoootdanoe with his general chaimcttL
Chrfttien calls him * Le Desrei* (oncurbed, impetuous). In Maloiy he is ' Le Desiroos.'
Cf. also Book viii. p. 341.

FUge X63. line sat—' TV sukfir tki magie fktasant* Simrock thinks this an aOosion \
to a popular folk-tale, in whidi a magidan, condemned to death, contrives to escape fagr
setting his Judges and executioner to seek for the fallen bird, bjr the irresistible strains d
his magic pipe.

Page x66, line 935—' HtinrUh of Vdiuk* A German pott who liired towards the end
of the twelfth oentmy* His translatkm of the jEmid, founded on a FVendi inersion of the
poem, was eztremdy popular, and Wolfram lie«|uently rders to it in his Parnval,

Fige 169, line 39X—- ' Henman of Thurimgia* This Landgrave of Tfauringia is wdl
known to history as a generous patron of the litenUure of his day. His court at the Wart-
burg was the resort of all the leading poets, and it filled a place in the literary life of the
twdflh centuiy only comparable to that taken by the neighbouring court of Weimar six
hundred yean later. The terms in which Wolfiam speaks of the guests at the Wartboig
is quite in keeping with what is known of the Landgrave's lavish hospitality.

Simrock rnders a passage from Walther von der Vogehrdde which describes the
tumultuous life of the court as follows :

* Wer in den Ohren licdi ist oder knink im Haupt,
Der meide Ja Thuringen's Hof, wenn er mir glänbt
Kim er deliin, er wOrde cans bethAreC ;
Idi drang to lange zn, dass ich nicht mehr vermag,
Eb Zog llhrt ein, ein andrer aas, lO Nacht als Tag,
Ein wonder iatt, da« da noch Jemand hAreL*

The Wariburg-krUg, a poem of the end of the thirteenth century, in whkh the prin-
dpal poets of the age are r e p re se nted as competing in song bdore the Landgrave,
supposes this contest to take place in 1907, and is doubtless an echo of what was no
unusual incident at thpt date. Wolfram's poem of WilUhalm was composed at the
wish of the Landgrave, and in it he speaks of the death of his patron. Herman died in
19x6, and the brilliant life at the Wartburg came to an end ; his successor Ludwig, the
husband of S. Elisabeth, having little taste for literature.

FUge X69, line 395—' And so Knight WalUr nngoiJL* Walther von der Vogehreide.
one of the most famous of German lyric poets, was of knightly birth but small means ; he
seems to have supported himself by his art, leading a wandering life at the prindpal
courts of his day. Of his connection with Wolfram nothing is known, save the fact dT their
bdng together at the court of the Landgrave Herman in the early years of the thirteendi
century. The line here quoted does not occur in any of Walther's extant poems.

Page Z69, line yA^* JieinrüM of Rijfack,* Nothing seems to be known of the
diameter here rderred ta From the fact that there is a Reisbach in the neighbourhood
of Escbenbadi, Bartsch conjectures that it was some one personally known to Wolfram.

Page xyx, line 385—* Tko Hnu wkon the knife's sharp hlado,* Wolfram is hone quoting
from an unknown source. No such adventures are recorded in any Romance that has
come down to us ; but they are quite in keeping with Gawam's character.

Page X76, line 599— '7*Atf right jf the Round TabU: This custom is alluded to in
other Arthurian Romances, and we meet with it again in Book xiil Here Wolfram seeon
to imply meidy that the king dkT not eat in public with his kni^iu, i.e. at the Round

NOTES 319

TaUe, beforo tbey had beard of some kni^bdy venture ; in Book xiii. be speaks as if
no meal migbt be partaken of by any of the courtiers tilt this came to pass. The first
rendering seems to be the correct one. [The whole incident is thoroughly in keeping
with the oonyentiaos of early Irish romance, in which the personages are invariably
subject to strict rules and obligations, geasa^ to use the Irish word.— A.N.]

Page 277» line 585—' The Grail Messengtr.* This incident occurs in both Chretien and
P^edur, but the messenger is unnamed» or simply termed ' The Loathly Damsel.' Such
a damsel is met with in the PercewUt but when she reaches King Arthur's Court she is
transformed into a maiden of surpassing beauty. It will be noted that one of the queens
imprisoned in Ch&teau Merveil also bears the name of Kondrie (p. 189). Mr. Nuii, in
his Studies on the L^end of the Holy Grail, suggests this was originally the Loathly
Damsel released from the transforming spelL (It may be noted that Wagner has kept
this idea, and in the first act his Kundry is the Loathly Messenger ; in the second,
' Kondrie la Belle.') Chretien's description of Kondrie's appearance is even more repulsive
than Wolfram's. In Book x. we have a curious account of the origin of these strange
people.

[The ' Loathly Damsel ' is one of those personages that most clearly testify to the
relianoe of the romance-writers upon a tradidonal popular basis, and also in this instance
to the specific Celtic origin of that popular basis. A oommdhplace of folk-tales of the
' task ' class is that the hero is helped by a personage having private ends of his or her own
to serve, as, until the hero achieves the QiKSt (which he never does unaided), the helper
cannot be released from a spell, generally of transformation into an animal, but sometimes
into a shape of surpassingly hideous ugliness. The oldest European variant kä this latter
type with which I am acquainted is to be found in an Irish folk-tale imbedded in the
so-called Cormac's Glossary, a compilation of the tenth century. I have given this in full
{Argyllshire Tales, M'Innes and Nutt, pp. 467, 468). In its outri horror the description of
the bespelled king's son strikingly recalls that of Kundrie. Such a task story, in which
the hero is helped by a transformed personage, who cannot be delivered until the Quest is
achieved, is one of the main staples of the Perceval cycle, but it is only in the Welsh tale
of Peredttr that the incident appears in a straightforward and inteUigit>le form. The
sudden transformation from foulness to radiant beauty is met with in another connection
earlier in Ireland than elsewhere in Europe : the incident of the Perilous Kiss, in which the
embrace of a courteous knight frees a bespelled damsel from loathly disguise, an incident
frequently associated with Gawain, is, as I have shown (Academy , April 30, 189a), of early
occurrence in Ireland. Another element which goes to the complex individuality of
Kundrie can be paralleled from early Irish romance. As the ftmale messenger of the frury
dynasty of Mazadan, she corresponds to Leborcbam, the female messenger of the semi-
mythic King Conchobor, the head and centre of the oldest Irish cycle of heroic romance.
Like Kundrie, Leborcbam was of startling and unnatural hideousness, and she is brought
into special connection with Cuchulainn the chief hero of the Ulster Öyde, as Kundrie is
with Perceval the chielf hero of one group of the Arthur romances. — ^A.N.]

Page 181, line 697 — * Chateau Merveil.* The adventure of this magic castle, achieved
by Gawain, is related at length in Book xi.

Page 184, line 806 — * Kingrimursel,* The name of dus character in Chretien is
Gnigambresil, of. which this is evidently the German rendering. Here, again, Wolfram
either heard or read Gingambresil.

Page X85, line 839—' Tribalibot: This is India.

Page x86, line 859—* Th€ heathen queen oflanfus.* The name of this queen, we find
from line S009, was Ekuba ; one of the few classical names we find in this poem.

Page X89, line 977-' The Greek, Sir Kitas: This is Cligte, the hero of Chretien's

390 PARZIVAL

poem of that name» soo of the Greek Emperor Alennder tad Smdamoor, listo
Gawaio, cf. Book Xll. Malory hu Sir Oegis. probably the same name.

Vm^^ 190, ham tooB^'Twihmsp$art^Amir»m,' Aogram was probably in lafia,
noted for ita steel. Oraste-Gcnteaein seems to be the name of the coontiy from vttcbi
reed, or bamboo, was broai^ Cf. Book til pp. atS, 9x9.

BOOK VII

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

Meeting with army of Meljans of Lys; Chrfttien: Perceval relates the

Gawain takes part in the tournament, and incident, with the diflerence that P<
overthrows Me\janx. overcomes both Gawain and Mdiaaa.

Introduction, line 1-16— This passage is somewhat obscore. bat the meaning appeals
to be that the poet thinks he may possibly be blamed for leaving the history of Panivall
his chief hero, to follow the fortunes of Gawain ; and would excuse himself for so c
the plea of fidelity to his source. Very few of the romances of this date can be oonsiderei
original works in the sense in which we would now employ that term ; they were mostlya
re-statement, or re-combining of traditional material, and it was a point of honow ta
adhere closely, in the march of incident, to the original form, though the poet was free to
do as Wolfram has done, and introduce personal and contemporary allusions, or give hii
own interpreution of the meaning of the tale. The fact that Wolfram here so strongly
blames those who depart from the traditional form of the story, and at the end of bis
poem specially accuses Chrfttien of having sinned in this way, seems a stiong aigument
against the theory that Chretien, and Chretien alone, was Wolfram's source of information.

Page 19s. line 9— 'Gawain,' Gauvain (French). Gwchlmai (Welsh). In all the earlier ver-
sions of the Grail story this knight plays a part only secondary to that of the chief hero
PercevaL Certain episodes of which be is sole hero, in Chrfttien as in Wolfram, break the
course of the Perceval story, though Wolfram; with considerable skill, has brought them into
dose connection with the main thread of the legend. With Chretien's oontinuators, too,
Gawain is an important diaracter, he also visits the Grail Castle and fails to ask the question ;
and a German version of the Grail legend, Diu Kr6me, by Heinrich von Torlin, makes him
the chief hero, it is he who achieves the Quest and heals Anfortas. It is noticeable that
none of the earlier versions know anything of either Lancelot or Galahad as-Grail-sedcers ;
Wolfram does mention the former, but only incidentally, and throughout his poem he
evidently looks upon Gawain as the typical Arthurian knight, the pride and glory of the
Round Table. It is curious that, though he feels himself compelled to apologise for some of
the characters, to make an elaborate defence for Kay, and find excuses for Kondwiramur,
Wolfram never has a word of blame for Gawain, and strong as the contrast is between his
morality and that of Parzival, be certainly never draws a comparison to the disadvantage
of the former ; as husband of Orgeluse and lord of the CbAteau Merveil, Gawain's lot in
life is brilliant enough to awaken the envy of Kay who is jealous for King Arthur's honour.
The whole presentment of Gawain in the poem is an eloquent commentary on the moral
teaching of the original Arthurian legend, of which he is the oldest representative.
Later compilers seem to have felt this, and as the legend gradually became ecclesiasticised, '
and assumed the form of a religious romance, so the original heroes of the story were

NOTES 321

gradually supplanted by others, whose characters, in the opinion of monkish compilers lent
tbemselves more-to purposes of moral edification. Thus Perceval the married man was
forced to yield to Galahad the celibate, and, though he was never driven out of the story,
was relegated to a secondary position ; and Gawain, whose character in the early
romances defied any attempt at converting him into a moral example, became merely a foil
to the superior virtue of his companions, while the adventures originally ascribed to him
were passed over to the repentant sinner Lancelot The order of Grail heroes seems to
have been as follows : Perceval, Gawain ; Perceval, Gawain, Lancelot ; Galahad, Perceval,
and Lancelot. It is in this last order that they have come down to us through Malory's
redaction of the legends.

Page 196, line 34 — * The 4teed from Mansalvasch came.* Cf. Book IX. p. 273, where
Parzival's possession of a Grail<steed leads to his being mistaken for Lähelein.
Page 198, line 96 — ' Meljakant.* Cf. Book III. p. 72 and note.
Page 198, line 105 — ' Meljanz ofLys* It will be seen, from the list of traditional events
l^ven above, that this character appears in other versions of the Perceval legends. Though
the context is different, the name with but little variation appears in other of the Grail
romances, Malory has Melias de Lile, in every instance the name indicates a French origin.
Page 198, line 119 — ' Lippaut' The name of this character in Chretien is Tiebaut of
Tintaguel, the German is evidently a rendering of this French name. Tintaguel seems to
point to a Keltic original.

Page 199, line 124 — ' Obie and Obilot* Bartsch considers that both these names are
derived from a French source, Obie, from the verb obiert signifying excitable, passionate ;
Obilot, from the French belot, a fair child. In Chretien the sisters are unnamed, but the
younger is called La pucUle as mances petites.

Page 199, line 136 — ' Galoes and Annora,' Here we learn, for the first time, the name
of Galoes* love, cf. Book ii. p. 46 and note. Annora is the same name as Eleanor.

Page 200. line 168 — ' Lisavander* The French has several variations of this name,
Teudaves, Travezdates, Trahedavet,

Page 205, line 318, and p. 219,, line 781 — ' A charger the king bestrode,* This is an
allusion to the captivity of Queen Guinevere and her rescue by Lancelot. Kay was
among her would-be liberators, and was smitten by Meljakanz : ' enbor us dem satele hin,
daz in ein ast der helm gevienc, und bl der gurgelen hienc' This incident is related in Hart-
mann's Iwein ; but the subsequent freeing of the queen by Lancelot, referred to on p.
219, is taken from Chretien's Chevalier de la Charrette, The adventure is again alluded
to in Book xii.

Page 210, line 493—' Gawain and Obilot.' Though Chrfttien and Wolfram agree here
in the main outline of the story, yet the details differ completely, and the episode as
related by the German poet is far more graceful and poetical in treatment. In Chretien
the elder sister strikes the younger in the face, and it is in order to avenge this insult that
the child t>egs Gawain to fight for her. It is the father, and not the child herself, who
suggests presenting the knight with a token ; he bids Gawain at first pay no attention to
her request, and there is no trace of the pride and affection with which Lippaut evidently
regards both his daughters, or of the confidence between father and child which is so
charming a feature in Wolfram's poem. Gawain, according to ChrÄtien, does not present
his little lady with the captured monarch, but only with his steed, a compliment she shares
too with his hostess and her daughters. In the French poet we have nothing of the
amusing assumption of maiden dignity by the child Obilot, or of the graceful courtesy,
half serious, half laughing, with which Gawain falls in with her whim, and sustains his
part in the pretty play. Critics have bestowed much praise on this book, and on the
character of the child Obilot, and some have thought that, in the picture of father and
VOL L X

322 PARZIVAL

child, and in the words put into LipiMbit's mouth, we hsve a glimpse of the home life of
the poet, and an expression of personal feeling. In WilUkalm^ Wolfram refers to his
daughter's dolls, and throughout his poems he frequently alludes to children, their wajs^
and their amusements. However that may be, nowhere else in the poem does Gawain
appear to so much advantage as in this episode.

Page 211, line 522 — ' ParnvaV Cf. Book vi. p. z88, line 941.

Page ai6, line 668—' Even new shall th4 Erfurt vineyards,* etc. An allusion to the siege
of Erfurt by the Landgrave Herman in 1203. As the poet speaks of the traces of strife as
being yet visible, this book of the Parzival must have been written not long after that date.

Page 217, line 715, and seq.^* The captive Breton knights' It is doubtful to what
romance Wolfram here makes allusion. Chretien, in his Chevalier la Charrette, relates
the capture of some of Arthur's knights by King Bagdemagus-Potdikonjonz, when
Meljakanz carried off Guinevere, but they were released by Lancelot. Wolfram seems to
have known another version of the story, as he evidently did know a romance dealing with
the fate of Arthur's son, Ilioot, of whom we know nothing. He refers to this at length
in Book xii, Cltise seems to betoken an enclosed space, a ravine, Chi^ien calls it
Le passage des pierres-^The Gampilon was a fabulous beast of the dragon type, also
mentioned in the Gudrun.

Page 218, line 733—* ^^ RedKnigW It is worth naticing that, throughout the Gawain
episodes. Wolfram never loses sight of bis principal hero ; if Parzival does not appear
personally, as he does in this book, he is always alluded to in direct connection with the
development of the story, e.g.. Book viii. pp. 24a, 243. This is not the case in Chretien,
where the Gawain episodes are entirely independent. Some critics have evolved an
elaborate theory to account for the importance assigned to Gawain in this and following
books, and maintain that Wolfram felt that while Parzival was a prey to spiritual doubt
and despair, it was more artistic to keep him in the background than to make him the
hero of a series of chivalrous adventures. The more probable solution seems to be exactly
the opposite, viz., that the Gawain episodes were already introduced into the legend,
tliat Wolfram, or his source, felt it a flaw that they should have so little connection with
the main thread ' i the story, and therefore conceived the idea of introducing the principal
hero, and, by keeping him always more or less en Evidence, making it possible to weave
the Gawain adventures into the fabric of the legend, instead of leaving them an excres-
cence on its surface— a conception which was finally perfected by the connection of
Orgeluse, Gawain's lady-love, with both Parzival and Anfortas, thereby bringing all the
different elements of the tale into touch each with the other.

BOOK VIII

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

Arrival of Gawain at castle ; committed to"\
care of lady to whom he makes love; is I Chretien: Peredur.
attacked by her people and defends himself f
with a chess-board. J

The Perceval gi\es an account of an adventure with a lady and a chess-board of which
Perceval is the hero, but the circumstances differ entirely, being similar to those of an
episode found in Gautier de Doulens and also in Peredur,

^11

NOTES 323

Page 229, line z^-^* Askahn,* The name of this city in Chretien is Escavallon,
apparently a variant of Avalon. The name in Wolfram may be either a mismiderstanding
of the French original, or it is not impossible that Askalon, being well known to the
Crusaders of that time, was purposely substituted for a similar sounding-title.

Page 230, line 26—' jEneas and Dido* An allusion to the Mneid of Heinrich von
Veldeck, to which Wolfram often refers. We learn from line Z2X that the writer wa&
already dead. Cf. note. Book vi.

Page 230, line 41 — ' Where Mazadan reigned as Monarch* Cf. Book I. p. 31, and
Book IX. p. 263. There is evidently a confusion here between the fairy and her kingdom.
Fay-Morgan is, of course, the fairy-queen, and the name seems later to have been trans-
ferred to Arthiu-'s sister, who is caUed Morgan le Fay in Malory. Terre-de-la-schoie, given
in Book i. as the name of the lady, is her kingdom ; the confusion probably arises from a
misunderstanding of the French source. We find, on p. 240, that the mother of King
Vergulacht, Fleurdamur, was sister to Gamuret, consequently Parzival and Vergulacht
are first cousins, and we are meant to understand that Gawain, who, as a lad, had seen
Gamuret at Kanvoleis (Book 11. p. 39), was struck by the king's likeness to his uncle and
cousin, though he evidently knows nothing of the relationship ; cf. Appendix A for notes
on the supposed origin of the Angevin race.

Page 23X, line 58 — ' Not such as in Karid&V This is the longest of the many
allusions to the Erec of Hartmann von Aue, and refers to the same incident as Book iii.
p. 8z, cf. note on passage.

Page 232, line 106 — ' Th€ Margravine of Heitstein,* This name varies greatly in the
MSS., but both Lachmann and Bartsch give the reading in the text. The Margravine
mentioned is identified with the wife of Berchtold von Chamm and Vohburg, who died in
1204.

Page 233, line 146—* Of my father's sister^* etc. This line is curious as giving a very
early instance of a play upon words familiar to us in modern puzzles. Gawain, of course,
simply states that he is ' his father's son,' and gives the queen no information whatever
as to his birth.

Page 234, line 181, and seq, — \At length did shechanceon some chess-men* etc. It should
be noted that chess-men, in the Middle Ages, were often of a very large size, and would
form no despicable weapons. In Chretien's version of the incident he specially speaks of
these as ten times larger than other chess-men, and of very hard ivory. Adventures in
which a chess-board plays a part are of not infrequent occurrence in the Grail romances.

Page 234, line 190—' The Burger maids of Tollensteiu,* Tollensteinis a town in the
neighbourhood of Eschenbach ; the allusion is evidently to some kind of Carnival sports
held there. Mock Tournaments, in which women took part, are often alluded to in old
French and German poems. The point of the allusion evidently is that they fought for
mere sport, while^Antikonie fought in defence of her guest, and her action is therefore held
the more praiseworthy.

Page 235, line 221 — ' The knight who to battle bade him.* Cf. Book vi. p. 184 and
note.

Page 236, line 257 — ' With a lance-thrust by Ekun&t* Ekun&t has been already
named in Book ill. p. 99. It seems doubtful whence Wolfram derived this incident.

Page 238, line 316 — 'As Kiot himself hath told us* This is the first time Wolfram
names the source whence he drew his poem. It has already been noted in the Introduction
that the existence of this Kiot is a matter of debate, as no poem of his has come down to
us, and apparently no other writer mentions his name. This passage should be compared
with Book IX. p. 262, where the nature of the MS. in which Kiot found the story of
Parzival and the Grail is stated. It certainly seems clear that Wolfram had a source of

324 PARZIVAL

Information olKor thui the poem of Chretien de Troyes ; his other statements as to con-
temporary erents and contemporary literature are perfectly accnrate, and we do not find
him inventing feigned names for other writers of the day ; it therefore seems somewhat
mireasonable to coodnde, simply because we know nothing of Kiot's work, that WoUxam
here, and in other passages, is, to put it mildly, inventing an elaborate fiction. The fiurt
of the great popularity obtained by Chretien's version of the Grail legend is quite enough
to account for the disappearance of a version which, for some reason or other (very
pcobably iu curious account of the Grail), had failed to attract the popular fancy.

Page 240, line 363—' If Titrmus tktm fain wouldst be,* An allusion to the jEnad of
Heinrich von Veldeck. where Turnus reproaches Tranics for cowardice, and is answered
in much the same strain as Liddamus answers KingrimurseL

Page 940, line 387—' Nay, why should I he a Wolfhart r This passage to line 398 is
an allusion to the great German epic, the Niehelungenlied, the various lays composing
which seem to have been brought into order and welded into a literary whole about this
time. Wolfram's version of the cook's appeal to Günther varies slightly from the received
text and probably represents an older form.

Page 341, line 407—' Sihech nier drew a sword.* This is an allusion to the story of
Dietrich von Berne, parts of which were incorporated in the Niehelmngenlied, where,
he wever, this special incident is not to be found. Ermenrich was uncle to Dietrich and
EmperOr of Rome ; Sibech, who seems to have been as faithless as he was cowardly, to
avenge a i>ersonal injury, counselled the Emperor to a course which brought about the
ruin of himself and his people.

Page 34a, line 45a—' The wood Lahtamreis,' Tamreis. as we find firom Book xii., is
the luune of a tree, this proper name seems tobe combined from Lteh, old French /»»near,
and tamreis (tamarisk?). The knight is, of course, Parzival. Cfardtien has not this
incident ; which is a proof of Wolfram's superior skill in controlling the thread of his
story.

Page 345, line 541—'^/ Schoie-de-la-Kurt: Cf. note to Book ill., where we find
the account of this venttu-e, and of the death of Gorzgrei, son of Gurnemanz. Gandelus
is the brother of Schionatulander, Sigunö's love.

Page a47, line 597 — ' To the Grail must his pathway voend* It is a very curious
feature, both in this poem and in that of Chretien, that the Grail Quest, undertaken by
Gawain, is allowed to drop into oblivion. Wolfram only makes one more allusion to it,
Book XI., and Chretien apparently ignores it altogether. In other versions of the ötory,
and notably in Chretien's continuators. the achievement of the Grail Quest by Gawain is
an important feature. It is true that Chretien's portion of the Conte breaks olT short
before the end of the Gawain episode, and that those who maintain that Wolfram had no
other source than Chretien point to this as a proof of their theory, urging that had
Chretien finished the poem he would undoubtedly have brought Gawain to Monsalväscfa,
and that Wolfi-am, deserted by his source at this point, carried the Gawain Quest no
further. But it must be noted that Wolfram, who. according to this theory, has hitherto
followed Chretien with remarkable fidelity, shows no embarrassment at the loss of his
guide, but, by bringing Gawain promptly into touch with Parzival. finishes his poem in a
thoroughly coherent and harmonious manner, his conclusion agreeing, in certain peculiar
features, with his Introduction, which, also, is unknown to Chretien. The simplest
solution appears to be that both Chretien and Wolfram were in possession of a oommoa
source, wherein the Gawain episodes were presented in an incomplete and abbreviated
form. Mr. Nutt points out that the Gawain Quest, as related by Chretien's continuators,
not only fails to agree with Chretien's commencement, but also presents features more
archaic than those of the Perceval Quest.

NOTES 325

BOOK IX

TRADITIONAL EVENTS

I

Cbrötien : Peredur ; Perceval.

Hero meets with pilgrims who reproach^
him for bearing arms on Good Friday, and (^
direct him to a hermit, who points out his
sins and gives him absolution.

Introduction to line 25. This spirited opening, with its invocation of the embodied
• Frau Aventiure,' is peculiar to Wolfram. The entire episode is much more briefly treated
by Chretien, who brings his hero at once in contact with the pilgrims, and has neither the
meeting with Sigun^ nor the combat with the Grail knight.

Page 251, line 5 — ' Frau Aventiure, This is a personification of the ' story ' and of the
spirit of romantic story-telling. Grimm (A7. Sx-hr, i. 83-112) claims that we have here a
survival of the personifying instinct which. led the northern poets to make 'Saga' a
daughter of Odin. The word itself is simply taken over from French romance where
or dist tAventure is a standing initial formula, in which A venture exactly renders the
ntaere of the opening quatrain of the NieMungenlied, — [A.N.]

Page 251, line 6—* Wkam Kondrie, to find the Grail.* Cf. Book vi. p. 187.

Page 252, line 34—* The sword that Anfortas gave him.' Cf. Book v. pp. 137 and 144,
and note.

Page 252, line 47 — * Schionatulander and Sigrm/.* This is Parzival's third interview
with his cousin, who has a much more important role assigned to her in this poem than in
the other romances. The hero meets her at every important crisis in his life ; on his first
entrance into the world, Book iii. p. 79 ; after his visit to the Grail Castle, Book v. p. 141 ;
now, previous to his interview with the hermit ; and finally, in Book xvi. after he has won
the Grail kingdom and been reunited to his wife, he finds her dead, and buries her with her
lover. Sigun^'s parentage is fully given on p. 274 of this book.

Page 257, line 204—' The Templar bold* This identification of the knights of the
Grail with the Templars (Templeisen) is a marked peculiarity of Wolfram's poem.
Nothing at all answering to the Grail kingdom and its organisation, as described in the
Parzival, is to be found elsewhere. The introduction of this spiritual knighthood, chosen
by Heaven, and, with special exceptions, vowed t d celibacy, seems intended as a contrast
with, and protest against, the ideal of worldly chivalry and lax morality portrayed in
Arthur's court. Are we to attribute this feature of the poem to Wolfram himself or to his
source? Judging from the value Wolfram placed upon fidelity to tradition it seems
scarcely probable that he would have departed so far from his model as to introduce such
an entirely new and striking element into the story ; nor have we any trace of the poet-
knight's connection with the order of Templars ; out if the writer of the admitted French
source was an Angevin, who had been in the East during the Angevin rule in Jerusalem,
the connection is easily explained. Certainly, to judge from the freedom with which the
introduction to the story has been handled, ' Kiot ' does not seem to have been hai)ipcred
with an undue respect for the traditional form of the legend.

Page 258, line vzy^* Nor Lähelein^ nor Kingrisein, etc* Kingrisein is the father of
VerguUcht, supposed to have been slain by Gawain, cf. Book viii. p. 240. King Gramo*
flanz plays an important part in the poem from Book xii. onward. Qcunt Laskoit, cf.
Book III. p. 99.

336 PARZIVAL

Page 258, line 230, and stq. — ' Ome monUmg the ground was snouhckuL* Cf . referaioe
to spring snow in Book vi. p. i6a The pilgrim train met by Parzival differs in tfie
versions. The Montpellier MS. of Cbr^en has three knights and ten ladies ; other mss.
one knight and twentyladies. Wolfram's account is more natural and more poeticaL

Page 259, line 263 — ' Dost tMou mean Him, tie* The address of the knight in ChrfiticB
is longer and conceived in quite a different spirit It contains one remarkable passage ;
speaking of the Crucifixion the knight says : ' Lifol Juis-^^on devroii tuer commte ciems, a
speech entirely out of keeping with the spirit of love and charity characterising 'Wolfram's
Old Knight, and Hermit. The German poem is, throughout, remarkable for the wide
spirit of tolerance displayed towards those outside the Christian pale; note, e»g,. Bode L
and especially the character of Feirefis as depicted in the two closing books of the work.
The religious teaching in this ninth book is not only fuller than in Chretien, bat seems
based on a much clearer realisation of the position of the individnal soul towards its
Creator. The elementary truths of Christianity are much more folly stated, and display a
familiarity with the theological speculations of the day which renders them peculiarij
interesting. There is no parallel, either, in Chrfttien to the fine speeches which Wolfi:am
puts into the mouth of his bera The whole episode m the French poem lacks the dignity
and impressiveness which stamp it in the German version ; it is in this book^ and in the
account of Parzival's boyhood, that Wolfram's poetical genius tooiches its highest point,
and his superiority to Chretien is most clearly seen.

Page 261, line 33/—' Towards Fontaine Sauvagt,* etc. Ct Book v. p. 151.

Page a6i, line 34B— ' Kiot: Cf. note to Book viii. It is noticeable that there is so
corresponding passage to this m Chrfitien ; the explanation of the Grail mystery given in
the CoHte du Graal is due to Chretien's continuators, and occurs in the later part of
the poem.

Page 26a, line 359—' Fltgetanis* A curious contradiction will be noted here. A few
lines above we read that no heathen skill could have revealed the mysteries of the Grail.
and yet apparently it was a heathen who first wrote of them. The whole account of the
the Grail reads like a not-too*sucoessful attempt to Christianise a purely pagan legend»

Page 263, line 383—' And in Britain, France, and Ireland, etc,* Cf. Appendix A and
note on Mazadan, Book viii. Nevertheless, the connection of the Grail race with the
House of Anjou, save through Herzeleide's marriage with Gamuret, is nowhere stated, nor
how Titurel was descended from Mazadan, the ancestor alike of Arthur and of Gamuret.

Page 265. line 465—-' The altar and shrine* Wolfram appears to be absolutely correct
here ; during the Middle Ages, a shrine, or reUquaiy, was generally placed on the altar, the
use of a cross was of comparatively late date. It is curious that Chretien, otherwise more
ecclesiastical in his details than Wolfram, has missed the characteristic feature of the
stripped altar; on the other hand, he notes that Perceval spends Easter with the
Hermit, and receives the Sacrament, while Wolfram passes Easter over without menticm.
(It is rather odd to find Chretien's Hermit saying Mass on Good Friday I )

Page 267, line 531 — * Ashtaroth,* Bartsch says that these names are derived from
Talmudic tradition ; Belcimon being Baal-Schemen, a god of the Syrians ; Belet, the
Baal of the Chaldeans. Rhadamant is, of course, the Greek ruler of the under*world.

Page 267, line 533, and seq, — ' When Lucifer and his angels* The belief that the
creation of man was directly connected with the fall of the rebel angels was very wide-
spread, though the relation of the two as cause and effect was sometimes the reverse of
that stated here. None of the editions of the Panival give a direct reference to the source
of the curious ' riddling' passage which follows, but the theory of the maidenhood of the
earth was a favourite one with Mediaeval writers.

Page 268, line 572— /'/a A» and the Sibyls, * A curious proof of the belief of the Mediaeval

NOTES 327

Church in the Christian nature of the Sibylline prophecies is found in the first line of
the Dies Ira :

' Dies Ine, Dies Ilia,
Solvet saeclum ta favilla
Teste David cum Sibylla.'

s

Page 270, line 615, and seq, — • The GraiL* The account of the Grail given by Wolfram
is most startling, differing as it does frOm every oiher account which has come down to
us. Wolfram evidently knows nothing whatever of the traditional ' vessel of the Last
Supper/ though the fact that the virtue of the stone is renewed every Good Friday by a
J/cst brought from Heaven seems to indicate that he had some idea of a connection
between the Grail and the Passion of our Lord. Various theories have been suggested
to account for the choice of a precious stone as the Sacred talisman ; Birch Hirschfeld
maintains that it arose entirely from a misunderstanding of Chretien's text, the French poet
describing the Grail as follows :

' De fin or esmeree estoit ;
Pieres pressieuses avott
El graal, de maintes manieres,
Des plus rices et des plus cieres
Qui el mont u en ttere soient.'

But how Wolfram, who, in other instances appears to have understood his French source
correctly, here came to represent an object of gold, adorned with many precious stones, as
a precious stone, does not appear. And it must be noted that this importance assigned to
a jewel is not out of keeping with the rest of the poem. From the jewel of Anflis^, the
ruby crown of Belakan^, and the diamond helmet of Eisenhart in the first book, to the long
list of preciotis stones adorning the couch of Anfortas in the last, the constant mention of
jewels is a distinct feature of Wolfram's version, and cannot be paralleled by anything in
Chretien. Moreover, in two other instances, viz. the armour of Feirefis in Book xv., and
the couch of Anfortas already mentioned, mystical and strengthening powers are attri-
buted to them. The MSS. vary in their spelling of the stone, giving Lapis, Lapsit,
Jaspis, exillis, exilix or erillis ; and it is impossible to identify the stone of the Grail with
any known jewel The fact that Wolfram alone of all the writt;rs of this cycle gives this
version of the legend, seems to point rather to a pectiliarity in his sotirce than to a genuine
tradition of the origin of the Grail-myth. In any case it is most probable that the responsi-
bility for the statement rests with the author of Wolfram's French source rather than with
Wolfram himself,

Page 271, line 665—' Tkey who took no part in tke conflict.* This account of the
neutral angels is partially contradicted by Trevrezent in Book xvi. during his last inter-
view with Parzival, when he openly admits that he had spoken untruly in order to induce
Parzival to give up his Quest for the Grail This contradiction introduces a good deal of
uncertainty as to what really is the moral aim of the poem.

Page 273, line 711 — * The white dove I see on its housing.* This, the badge of the
Grail knights, is peculiar to the German poem. Those familiar with Wagner's Parsifal
will not need to be reminded that the dove and the swan are represented by him as the
sacred birds of the Grail. The connection with the swan will be found in Book xvi.

Page 273, line 737—' O thou son of my sister.' The relationship of uncle and nephew
between the hermit and the hero of the Quest obtains in most of the versions. The rela-
tionship with the wounded king varies, sometimes he is the hero's grandfather.

Page 274, line 759—* Thou wast the becut that hung* etc. Cf. Book IL p. 58. This
incident of the mother's dream is peculiar to Wolfram.

328 PARZIVAL

Page a74. line 771^*^1^011»« A SckoU: Cf. Book v. p. 135 and Book xvi. She
finally marries Feirefis, Parshral's half-brother.

Page 375. line 785— '^ik/ if levt ike Grail King seekttk. This explanation of the
wound of Anfortas as the punishment of unlawful love is peculiar to Wolfram, and is in
accordance with the superior depth and spirituality of his treatment of the legend. In the
other versions the king is wounded in battle or accidentally. The various remedies tried
for the wound, related on pp. 376, 277, give a curious idea of the surgical skill of the Middle
Ages, and seem dralWn from a mixture of Oriental and classical sources. The names in
line 830 are derived from the Greek, and signify various serpents, with the exception of
Ecidemon, which we learn in Book xv. was an animal greatly feared by snakes, perhaps
the Ichneumon. The reference to iEneas and the Sibyl is from the Aimid of Heinrieb
von Veldeck.

The legend of the pelican is well known, and the first part of the passage referring to
the unicorn, its love for a spotless maiden, was a widespread fiction of the Mediaeval
times, but the assertkMi that tfie carbuncle is found under the unioom's horn seems peculiar
to Wolfram, and illustnues what has been said above as to his employment of predoos
stoneSb

On p. a8i we find a full account of the influence of the planets upon the wound.

Page 378. line 867—' A knight should conu to thi casiU.* This promised healing of
the king by means of a question put by the hero is a marked ' folk-lore ' feature of tbe
tale. Mr. Nutt points out in bis Studies that in the Grail legend we have a version of
the well-known visit to a magic castle influenced by two distinct formulas familiar to folk-
lore students, (a) where the object of the hero is to avenge the death, or wounding, of a
relative— the Feud-quest ; (b) to release the inhabitants of the castle from an enchantment
—the un-spelling quest The bleeding lance seems to be connected with the first (peiiiaps
also the sword, but its employment both in Wolfram and Chretien is so enigmatic that it
is difficult to know what import to attach to it), the question with tbe second. The form
of the question differs here ; in all the other versions it is connected with the Grail : ' Whom
derve they with the Grail ? ' Here, directly with the wounded king, ' What aileth thee, mine
uncle?' Birch Hirschfeld maintains, first, that the question was a 'harmless invention'
of a predecessor of Chretien's (thus ignoring the archaic character of the incident);
secondly, that Wolfram, having misunderstood Chretien's account of the Grail, was natur-
ally compelled to invent a fresh question. Of the two. Wolfram's question seems dis-
tinctly the more natural, and the more likely to occur to the mind of a simple youth like
Parzival ; and he has also made much better use of the incident. It is Parzival's üailime in
the spirit of charity, in the love due ' as a man to men,' that eonstitutes the sin of the omitted
question. Mr. Nutt well remarks that ' It is the insistence upon charity as the herald and
token of spiritual perfection that makes the grandeur of Wolfram's poem.*

Page 383, line 1038 — *Ifa land be without a ruler,' Here we have the germ of the
well-known story of Lohengrin, related in Book xvi. We learn from this passage that
Lohengrin's mission was no isolated instance, but a part of the office of the Grail knights.
Wolfram's whole presentment of the Grail kingdom, as won by an act of love to a fellow-
man, and used for the benefit of others, offers an ideal, not only curiously modem in tone,
but in striking contrast to the glorification of spiritual selfishness which we find in other
Grail romances. Elsewhere, the aim of the achiever of the Quest is purely to save his oum
soul, and, the task accomplished, he passes away leaving the world none the better for
his work. If we look at the concluding lines of the poem. Book xvj., we shall find that
Wolfram had quite a different idea of a man's duty to the world of his day.

Page 383, line 1045 — *King Kastis wooed Herteltide* Cf. Book ii. p. 48.

Page 384. line 1070— The account of Trevresent*s wanderings is curious, as it mizc« up

NOTES 329

faboloos places such as Agremontin, the home of the Salamanders, and Fay-Moryan,
with such well-known names as Seville, Sidly, and Aquilea. Rohas has been identified
with a range of mountains in St jiia ; CeUi is also in Styria. The derivation of ' Gandein '
from a Styrian town is very curious. Whether the name was in Wolfram's source or not,
we cannot decide, but the connuti&it can only have been introduced by the German poet.

Page 986, line nay—' Two wurtalsim,* It is curious that in no other version of the
story is the daying of the Red Knight regarded as a sin. Here, however, it is quite in
keeping with the pronounced knightly character of the poem. Ither is Fanival's near
kinsman, apparently both cousin, and unde by mairiage (lines zio8 and 1x19)1 ^^ ^ ^8^^
with one connected either by the tie of blood or of friendship is regarded throughout as a
bfeach of knightly frdth, ct Books xiv. and xv. where Parsival figbu, unwittingly, with
Oawatn and Feirefis. In Chr^en the hermit tells Perceval that it is his sin in causing
the death of his mother which has sealed his lips before the Grail ; Wolfram seems to
regard his silence independently, and, as noted above, the sin, there, seems to be frülure in
charity and in recognising the bond of universal brotherhood ; whic^ ÜEÜlure, indeed, is at
the root of the ' two mortal sins.'

Page ggy, line 115^—' Titmrtl,' The frtther of the Fisher King is not named in
Chretien, and indeed is only alluded to in an obscure and enigmatical iiassage as being
nourished by the Grail. This statement is peculiar to these two writers, and seems to
indicate that thqr were in possession of a common source.

Page 287, line 1x69—' An ikou wemldst thai H^Uftht adonUd.* The passage which
follows here to line xx8o should be noted, as it seems to be an interpolation ; it has no
connection whatever with the context, and is in quite a different tone from the knightly and
iineodesiastical character of the rest of Trevresent's teaching.

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